SANPUD and UNDP Advocacy Support Expands Access to Lenacapavir: Now Available at Selected Clinics Across South Africa

Lenacapavir is a new long‑acting HIV prevention option now available at selected clinics, and this page offers a simple  explaination of how it works, who can receive it and what people can expect when starting it.

Beginning with Access

Lenacapavir is now available at selected clinics throughout South Africa.It is a long acting HIV prevention option for people who are not living with HIV and who want additional protection against HIV. It is a form of pre exposure prophylaxis that reduces the risk of acquiring HIV and is designed for people who prefer a long acting option rather than daily tablets. ​

Why Lenacapavir Matters for People Who Use Drugs

Lenacapavir is useful for people who use drugs because it fits into the real conditions of their lives. Many people move between temporary places, share space with others or have limited privacy for storing medication. Daily HIV prevention can be difficult under these circumstances. Lenacapavir offers an option that requires fewer clinic visits and does not depend on daily routines. One injection provides six months of protection and only two injections are needed each year. ​

How Lenacapavir Is Started

Lenacapavir is started over two days at the clinic. ​

Day One 
People receive two injections. The main injection site is the stomach area. Alternative sites such as the thighs or buttocks are used when needed, including for pregnant people. This begins the long acting protection. 

Day Two 
People return to the clinic for booster tablets and receive a box of take home tablets to complete the initiation process. The medication begins working within three days and people return every six months for ongoing coverage. 

What People Need Before Starting

Before receiving Lenacapavir, people must have an HIV test and must be HIV negative. People receive information and counselling so that they can make informed choices about their health. Regular HIV testing remains important while using Lenacapavir. 
​Most side effects are mild and may include pain, swelling or redness at the injection site, headache or tiredness. If side effects do not improve, people should seek medical advice. 

Lenacapavir Is One Option Among Many

Lenacapavir is only one HIV prevention option. Needle and syringe programmes, opioid agonist therapy, HIV testing, condoms, lubricants, peer support and access to respectful healthcare remain essential. People who use drugs have the right to accurate information, confidentiality and HIV prevention services. Nobody should be forced to use Lenacapavir. ​

How Harm Reduction Teams Support Access

Harm reduction teams are helping people understand where Lenacapavir is available and how it can support their health. The medication is currently offered at selected clinics and teams are sharing information so that people know exactly where they can go to receive it. ​

Continuing the Work

The introduction of Lenacapavir expands HIV prevention choices for people who use drugs. It supports real conditions, reduces daily demands and strengthens long term protection. The work continues. Sharing information. Supporting access. Ensuring that people can choose the HIV prevention method that fits their lives. ​