Kenyans to start receiving free doses of new HIV prevention drug
The first Kenyans to receive the new HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir will get it on Thursday when the government officially rolls out the injectable in 178 health facilities across 15 counties.
Lenacapavir, known as LEN, is a long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) administered once every six months. It will be rolled out alongside cabotegravir (CAB-LA), another long-acting injectable PrEP approved in 2024 after being recommended by the World Health Organisation in 2022.
The two join an oral PrEP pill launched in 2017, giving the country three options for people seeking protection against HIV. PrEP is taken before potential exposure by people not yet infected with the virus. It is neither a vaccine nor a cure.
Ruth Kamau, Programmes Officer at the National Aids and STIs Control Programme (Nascop), said there is high overall readiness for the rollout. The government has identified the facilities, trained healthcare workers to administer the drug and assess eligible clients, and put in place mechanisms to track side effects.
“We understand that no single prevention works for everyone, and different people have different needs; that is why we are giving people a choice when they get to a facility,” she said.
“Just like other PrEP methods, it is best to use condoms alongside LEN to prevent unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections,” she added.
To be eligible, a client must take a mandatory HIV test at the point of care. Other criteria include weight, those who weigh 35kg or more qualify, screening for recent exposure, medical history and disclosure of current medications.
“Eligibility is a clinical decision that will be determined by the healthcare provider when you go to a facility,” said Kamau.
Clients who meet all criteria are free to choose the type of PrEP they prefer.
Dr Elizabeth Irungu, Jhpiego’s Regional Technical Adviser on PrEP Implementation Science and Service Delivery, told Nation that a negative HIV test is critical to avoid drug resistance among people already living with the virus.
“The people who are already infected with the virus are supposed to be on daily medication. They take about three different drugs. If you put somebody on just one medication, then that increases the likelihood of their virus not being responsive to existing medication. Over time, that could lead to resistance,” she said.
“Our test kits in the country give results within a short time. So, the test will be taken at the point of care,” she added.
Dr Irungu said clients on certain medications, including tuberculosis drugs, sexual performance-enhancing drugs and high cholesterol medications, should be guided by their clinicians on dosage.
“This is about giving Lenacapavir in special situations. It may interfere with how different drugs are broken down in the body. This is why it is important for people going for LEN to let their clinicians know what other conditions they have,” she explained.
“The doctor will know what kind of adjustments to make. They will either give an additional dose of LEN at a separate visit, or reduce or change the doses of the other medications you are taking,” she added.
A presentation at the 13th International Aids Society conference in Kigali, titled Lenacapavir Dosing in Special Situations, noted that TB drugs could lower concentrations of LEN, underscoring the need for clients to disclose their full medical history.
The drug is injected subcutaneously, just below the skin, at the lower abdomen or thighs. On the first day, a client receives two injections and two pills immediately, with two extra pills to take about 24 hours later.
“Taking the injection and the pills gives more protection. If you miss out on the pills, the protection could take longer, up to even a month. You will not need pills for the second dose of injections,” said Dr Irungu.
She stressed the importance of returning for the second dose on time to ensure effectiveness.
Most side effects are localised to the injection site. The drug may form a small lump known as a nodule, which fades as it is absorbed into the body. Other side effects include pain, swelling or redness at the injection site, and nausea.
There were no safety concerns in the two clinical trials. The Purpose 1 study, conducted among women in Uganda and South Africa, showed 100 per cent efficacy in preventing new HIV cases. Purpose 2, conducted in the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, South Africa, Thailand and Mexico, showed 96 per cent efficacy.
Kamau said pregnant and breastfeeding mothers can also receive the drug safely.
“We encourage pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to take LEN. It will actually be one of the ways to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV,” she said.
The drug is provided free at the selected health facilities.
hshikanda@ke.nationmedia.com
Shows
See AllAM Live
AM Live is NTV's morning current affairs show that sets the agenda for the day with insightful panels every weekday.
Business Redefined
Business Redefined is Kenya’s premier thought leadership platform for unpacking matters regarding economic and finance policy as well demystifying complex developments in the region’s capital markets.
Comedies
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Creatives & Coins Podcast
A podcast that dives deep into the vibrant and rapidly evolving digital creative economy in Kenya. This show explores the lives, challenges, and triumphs of individuals who are successfully navigating the gig and creative economies. From digital artists and content creators to freelance writers and tech entrepreneurs, we spotlight the voices that are shaping the future of work in Kenya.
Documentaries
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Entertainment
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Fixing The Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar. Podcast created by: Nation FM
Fixing the Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar
Full Episodes
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Gumzo La Sato
Gumzo La Sato is a live social issues show that aims to create awareness about issues affecting the larger society. The discussions range from Parenting, Marital bliss and struggles, Oppression, violence, and all matters of the Heart.
Health Diary
Health Diary is a weekly show that highlights different types of diseases/conditions and seeks ways to prevent, treat/manage them. The show debunks this through real life stories and also feature specialists in different fields, to offer medical advice on the same.
Letter To My Younger Self
Letter To My Younger Self is a podcast where guests get to write a letter to their younger self, from which Maxine formulates questions to ask them during the hour-long show.
Nation Reports
Nation Reports is a weekly podcast offers an opportunity for listeners to interact with various reporters and journey with them as they unravel the biggest most emotive stories.
One Health Lens Podcast
Discussing health matters and human stories from Kenya and across Africa. We talk big picture from people to policy, ecosystems, and everything in between. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehealthlens
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost peeks through the story of Louis Otieno, the times, and everything in between.
Primetime
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Speaking of GEN Z
Speaking of Gen Z brings you entertaining but meaningful conversations about a generation that is trying to navigate through adulthood. Join hosts Michelle, Jackie and Esther as they unravel all things Gen Z.
Sport On
Sport-On is a 30-minute sports magazine show on NTV and 3 hours on NATION FM. The show seeks to give the sports “fanatics” and “funatics” comprehensive and in-depth coverage of sports both locally and internationally.
Tech-over
The extent of technological growth is beyond mere acknowledgment; it has seamlessly integrated into our daily existence. A few years ago, the notion of paying electricity bills through mobile money or recharging with 'tokens' in Kenya seemed inconceivable. Online product sales were considered distant, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping various facets of our lives. Amidst these technological leaps, those with a solid understanding of tech can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a sustainable livelihood. Tech over Show aims to be the platform facilitating discussions among thought leaders, innovators, tech companies, and the government, addressing challenges and opportunities in Kenya's thriving tech industry.
Thamani
Thamani is a business show which is dedicated to emerging issues regarding micro, small and medium size businesses.
The Politalk podcast
This is The Politalk podcast. Here we look into the ins and outs of everything Kenyan politics. We pull no punches and have no reason to sugarcoat anything that matters to Kenyans.
The Trend
A two-hour-long live show that airs on Fridays. The show focuses on what is current in the entertainment industry, controversial and popular across all media platforms targeting those aged between 25 and 35 years.
The trend podcast
The trend podcast highlights and captures the best of banter from #TTTT segment that airs every Friday on NTV. It's the TTTT EXTRA
The Wicked Edition
The Wicked Edition with Dr. King’ori seeks to address serious issues through humour and relatable wit. It is a two-part half hour show filmed in front of a live audience
Trending
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Twende
Twende is a travel show that highlights beautiful, unique, diverse locations, people, and cultures. The show offers fresh perspectives on familiar locations and memorable experiences in new ones.
Unscripted
This Saturday evening lifestyle show lets viewers share their stories and life experiences as openly & honestly for the purpose of shifting the culture of silence.
VIP Access
VIP ACCESS is Anyiko Owoko’s YouTube and podcast show on Music and Culture dedicated to promoting Africa’s most promising talent and creatives. This podcast grants you VIP access into timeless interviews while providing a platform for rising as well as established artists across the continent. Since launching in 2018, Anyiko has interviewed over 70 African music stars.
WADR
This weekly news show aims to have all sides of debate but not be constrained by it, listen to main voices in the contest but not allow them to hold the viewers hostage, entertain debate but allow push back with all due respect.
When death do us part
In this podcast, three widowers openly speak about the process of grief, how they found themselves exposed to the emotional turmoil of losing their wives, and how society still does not know how to deal with them.
Your World
Your World is a health, wellness and variety show. It provides a platform for audiences and experts to share their experiences on how to improve or manage health issues, across Kenya and the Africa region.