Joseph Eron, M.D., the Herman and Louise Smith Distinguished Professor of Medicine at UNC School of Medicine and director of the Clinical Core at the UNC Center for AIDS Research, is spotlighting the potential of lenacapavir, a new FDA-approved, twice-yearly injectable medication for HIV prevention. In clinical trials, lenacapavir showed 99.9% effectiveness—surpassing daily PrEP pills.Dr. Eron noted its convenience and improved adherence, “People underestimate how hard it is to take their medicine every day,” he said, pointing to how this long-acting option could be a game-changer.
The implications are especially important for adults over 50, who now make up over half of those living with HIV in the U.S. With minimal side effects and no major drug interactions, lenacapavir may ease the burden of daily medications and reduce stigma. Though cost remains a concern, Dr. Eron’s support of the treatment signals a promising shift in prevention strategies for older populations.