Lenacapavir: a first-in-class capsid inhibitor for HIV treatment and prevention.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes available data for lenacapavir (LEN), a first-in-class agent that targets several functions of the HIV capsid in the viral cycle, including nuclear entry, viral assembly, and capsid formation.

RECENT FINDINGS: LEN has been approved in the United States as both oral tablets and injectable solution for treatment in heavily treatment-experienced adults with multidrug-resistant HIV-1. The subcutaneous injections are administered every 26 weeks (6 months). In 2024, LEN was named the biggest science breakthrough for HIV prevention, and is currently under review at the FDA.

SUMMARY: LEN is a novel agent that can be administered subcutaneously every 6 months. Approved for treatment-experienced adults with multidrug-resistant HIV, lenacapavir may have additional uses including for HIV prevention.