Fact Check: "Gilead's HIV shot costs $28,218 per year."
What We Know
Gilead Sciences has recently announced that its new HIV prevention injection, lenacapavir, which will be marketed as Yeztugo, will have a list price of $28,218 per year in the United States (New York Times, BioPharma Dive). This price is positioned slightly higher than Gilead's other HIV prevention medication, Descovy, which costs about $26,400 annually (BioPharma Dive). Lenacapavir is designed to be administered twice a year and has shown promising results in clinical trials, providing significant protection against HIV infection (New York Times).
Analysis
The claim that Gilead's HIV shot costs $28,218 per year is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. The FDA has approved lenacapavir for HIV prevention, and Gilead's official statements confirm the pricing (BioPharma Dive). Additionally, the UNAIDS organization has criticized the pricing, reiterating that Gilead has set this price point for the new injection (UNAIDS).
The sources used in this fact-check are credible and relevant. The New York Times and BioPharma Dive are reputable news outlets that cover health and pharmaceutical developments extensively. Furthermore, UNAIDS is a recognized global health organization focused on HIV/AIDS, which adds weight to the discussion surrounding the drug's pricing.
However, it is important to note that while the list price is set at $28,218, many individuals may not pay this amount due to insurance coverage or patient assistance programs (New York Times). Advocacy groups have raised concerns about potential barriers to access, which could affect the actual cost borne by patients (UNAIDS).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Gilead's HIV shot costs $28,218 per year is accurate and supported by multiple credible sources. The pricing is officially confirmed by Gilead and reported by reputable news organizations. While the actual cost to patients may vary due to insurance and assistance programs, the stated list price remains valid.
Sources
- Regulators Approve Lenacapavir for H.I.V. Prevention - New York Times
- FDA approves twice-yearly shot of Gilead drug for HIV prevention - BioPharma Dive
- UNAIDS urges Gilead to drop price of new HIV prevention shot - UNAIDS
- Gilead's $28,000 Price Tag on HIV Prevention Injection - African Health Report
