Black communities have carried a disproportionate burden of the HIV epidemic in the U.S., yet the tools meant to protect us haven’t always fit into our lives, our schedules, or our realities.
But that’s changing.
The FDA just approved Yeztugo® (lenacapavir) — the first and only HIV prevention shot you only need twice a year. That means powerful, long-acting protection without a daily pill. It’s discreet, effective, and designed to break down the barriers that have kept too many people from accessing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) — especially Black and Brown people, women, and folks in the South.
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This isn’t just a new medicine. It’s a new era — and it’s about time.
What is Yeztugo?
Yeztugo is a powerful new way to prevent HIV. It’s a long-acting injectable medication that reduces the risk of acquiring HIV infection. It’s meant for people who do not have HIV but want protection, whether you’re new to PrEP or thinking of switching from a daily pill.
Who can take it?
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- Adults and adolescents who weigh at least 77 pounds (about 35 kg)
- Anyone at higher risk for HIV, including people who’ve had condomless sex, have had a recent STI, or have a partner living with HIV
Why This Matters Now
Although the first PrEP medication was approved in the U.S. in 2012, in 2023 alone, more than 100 people were diagnosed with HIV every day in the U.S. — and PrEP remains underused, especially by the people who could benefit from it the most. This includes women, Black/African American and Latine/Hispanic individuals, and people living in the U.S. South.
That’s why Yeztugo’s twice-yearly format is such a big deal. It offers a more discreet, potentially easier-to-manage option that could help more people stay protected, especially those who’ve struggled with the daily demands of oral PrEP. It’s a potential game changer for long-term health outcomes, and because of that promise, the journal Science named lenacapavir (the drug contained in Yeztugo) its 2024 “Breakthrough of the Year.”
RELATED: Preparing for PrEP Side Effects
Does it really work?
Yes — and the numbers are incredible. Across two large global studies conducted by Gilead (called PURPOSE 1 and PURPOSE 2), over 99.9% of people who received Yeztugo stayed HIV-negative. That’s a level of protection that’s hard to beat.
And what makes these trials even more important? The broader PURPOSE program is the most inclusive HIV prevention clinical trial program ever conducted, and included a focus on Black women, queer folks, and communities in Africa and Latin America. This was research done for us and with us.
How does it work and how often do you get it?
Yeztugo blocks HIV from taking hold in your body. It’s a “capsid inhibitor,” which means it messes with the virus at different stages of its life cycle so it can’t spread.
Here’s what to expect:
- Day 1: You get two pills and two injections (usually in your belly or thigh).
- Day 2: You take two more pills.
- After that? Just two injections every six months — that’s it.
Injections happen in a clinic or a doctor’s office. Talk to your healthcare provider about where you can get it near you.
What about side effects?
In clinical trials, Yeztugo was well tolerated. Most people had no major issues, but some reported:
- Injection site soreness
- Headache
- Nausea
Want something private and easy?
We know the stigma around HIV and sexual health is real. It’s one reason many folks never start PrEP, or why they stop using it. With Yeztugo, there’s no daily reminder, no bottles on your nightstand, and no worry about forgetting a pill. Just twice-a-year protection that fits into your life, not the other way around.
How much does it cost?
Gilead, the maker of Yeztugo, says it’ll be priced similarly to other branded PrEP meds. The good news?
- If you’re uninsured, you may still qualify for free medication through Gilead’s Advancing Access program.
- Help with copays is available, too, so don’t assume you can’t afford it.
Want to check your options? Visit www.yeztugo.com for info and support.
So, is Yeztugo right for you?
If you:
- Are not living with HIV
- Want a simpler, more discreet way to stay protected
- Prefer injections over daily pills
- Have sex or share injection tools, especially without consistent condom use
…then yes, Yeztugo could be a great fit. Just make sure to get an HIV test before each injection, which your provider will handle.
What’s next?
Yeztugo is now approved in the U.S. and was recently granted approval for use in the European Union’s 27 member states, as well as Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein under the brand name Yeytuo®. Additionally, Gilead is working to bring it to more countries fast, including South Africa, Brazil, and Canada.
Final thoughts
HIV prevention is not one-size-fits-all. But for our communities — especially those who’ve been underrepresented, unheard, or underserved — Yeztugo is a new kind of PrEP option. One that respects your time, your privacy, and your health.
If you’re ready to explore Yeztugo, talk to your provider or visit www.yeztugo.com.
