A new HIV drug, lenacapavir, appears highly effective against strains circulating in Uganda, according to a study led by Weill Cornell Medicine. Researchers found that only 1.6% of 546 Ugandan patients had mutations linked to lenacapavir resistance, suggesting the therapy could be a powerful tool in HIV treatment.
Lenacapavir, which disrupts HIV’s protective capsid layer, has shown success in both treatment-resistant patients and as a preventive measure. Unlike traditional therapies, it requires only two doses per year. Researchers confirmed its potential efficacy against HIV-1 subtypes A1 and D, common in East Africa.
Experts stress the importance of continued monitoring to detect emerging resistance. As lenacapavir becomes available in the region, ongoing research will help ensure its long-term effectiveness in controlling HIV.
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