Fact Check: "Gilead's new HIV shot costs $28,218 a year, raising affordability concerns."
What We Know
Gilead Sciences recently received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a new HIV prevention drug called lenacapavir, which will be marketed under the name Yeztugo. The drug is designed to be administered as a twice-yearly injection and is priced at $28,218 per year, or $14,109 per injection (source-1, source-3). This pricing has raised significant concerns regarding affordability, especially in light of existing options for HIV prevention, such as daily pills that can cost as little as $1 per dose (source-1).
Lenacapavir is considered a major advancement in HIV prevention, with clinical trials showing it provides near-complete protection against HIV infection. However, the high cost of the drug has led to worries that it may not be accessible to all those who need it, particularly in low-income countries where health budgets are being cut (source-1).
Analysis
The claim that Gilead's new HIV shot costs $28,218 a year is accurate and well-supported by multiple reputable sources. The FDA's approval announcement confirms the pricing structure for lenacapavir (source-3). Additionally, Gilead has stated that while the list price is high, they are working with insurers to ensure broader coverage, which may mitigate some affordability concerns (source-3).
However, advocacy organizations have expressed skepticism about the actual accessibility of lenacapavir, citing historical issues with insurance coverage and pricing barriers for similar medications (source-1). Critics argue that unless Gilead and insurers take proactive steps to ensure coverage, many individuals may still face significant hurdles in accessing this potentially life-saving medication.
The reliability of the sources is strong, with information coming directly from the FDA and reputable news outlets like The New York Times and USA Today. These sources provide a balanced view of both the drug's potential benefits and the challenges related to its cost and accessibility.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Gilead's new HIV shot costs $28,218 a year is accurate, as confirmed by multiple credible sources. While the drug represents a significant advancement in HIV prevention, the high cost raises legitimate concerns about affordability and access, particularly for vulnerable populations who may not have adequate insurance coverage.
Sources
- Regulators Approve Lenacapavir for H.I.V. Prevention - New York Times
- Gilead Sciences - Gilead
- FDA approves new twice-yearly HIV shot. What to know - USA Today
- UNAIDS urges Gilead to drop price of new HIV prevention - UNAIDS
