Lenacapavir is a long-acting antiretroviral medicine that can be used as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to help prevent HIV infection in people who are HIV-negative. Unlike daily oral PrEP, lenacapavir is given as an injection every six months.

Lenacapavir works by targeting the HIV capsid, a structure that HIV needs to reproduce and establish infection. When used as PrEP, it helps protect an HIV-negative person from acquiring HIV.

Lenacapavir for HIV prevention is administered twice a year — approximately every six months. This may make HIV prevention easier for people who find it difficult to take a pill every day.

No. Lenacapavir is not a vaccine. It is an antiretroviral medicine used for HIV prevention.

Clinical trials have shown lenacapavir to be highly effective at reducing the risk of HIV acquisition when used as prescribed. No HIV prevention method provides protection against every sexually transmitted infection, so combination prevention remains important.

No. Lenacapavir is specifically used to prevent HIV. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, gonorrhoea or chlamydia. Condoms, regular STI screening and other prevention options can still play an important role in your sexual health.

Lenacapavir provides protection against HIV, but it does not prevent other STIs or pregnancy. Condoms can therefore still be useful as part of combination prevention.

Yes. HIV testing is an important part of starting and continuing injectable PrEP. Your healthcare provider will also assess whether lenacapavir is appropriate for you.

Lenacapavir used as PrEP is intended for people who do not have HIV. If you are living with HIV, speak to a healthcare provider about the appropriate HIV treatment. Do not use PrEP as a substitute for HIV treatment.

It is important to return for your next injection on schedule. If you think you may miss your appointment, contact your healthcare provider or PrEP service as soon as possible. They can advise you on what to do and whether another HIV prevention option is needed.

Like other medicines, lenacapavir can have side effects. Your healthcare provider should explain the possible side effects before you start. Tell your healthcare provider about any medicines, supplements or other treatments you are taking.

Yes. South Africa launched the national rollout of lenacapavir for HIV prevention in June 2026, beginning a phased implementation. Availability may differ between facilities and areas as implementation expands. Speak to your local healthcare provider or PrEP service to find out where it is currently available.

Lenacapavir PrEP is an option for people who are HIV-negative and may benefit from HIV prevention. Your healthcare provider will assess your HIV status and whether injectable PrEP is appropriate for you.

HIV prevention should give people choices. Some people prefer a daily pill, while others may prefer an injectable option that only requires healthcare visits twice a year. Having different PrEP options can help people choose a method that works for their lives and circumstances.

No. HIV prevention includes a range of options, including daily oral PrEP, long-acting injectable PrEP, condoms, HIV testing, STI screening and treatment, HIV treatment and viral suppression, and other combination prevention approaches. The best prevention option is one that is effective and works for you.

Visit a POP INN service point or speak to a healthcare provider about HIV prevention and PrEP options. You have choices. You have the right to information. You have the right to stigma-free healthcare.