Rwanda Introduces Long-Acting Injectable PrEP to Fight HIV/AIDS

In a significant step toward preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS, Rwanda has introduced a long-acting injectable form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Officially launched on January 3, the injectable PrEP is being piloted at two health centers in Kigali: Gikondo and Busanza. This innovative approach is designed to make HIV prevention more accessible and effective, especially for individuals at higher risk of contracting the virus.

What is Injectable PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP, is a preventive treatment for HIV-negative individuals to reduce their risk of acquiring the virus. Traditionally, PrEP has been available in the form of oral pills that need to be taken daily. While highly effective when used consistently, the daily regimen can be challenging for some people due to stigma, forgetfulness, or lifestyle constraints.

The new long-acting injectable PrEP simplifies this process. Instead of taking a pill every day, individuals receive an injection every two months. This injectable contains a drug called cabotegravir, which works by preventing HIV from replicating in the body if someone is exposed to the virus. With the convenience of fewer doses, this option is particularly beneficial for those who struggle to stick to daily medication schedules.

How Does Injectable PrEP Work?

Injectable PrEP works by maintaining a steady level of the medication in the body over time. When HIV enters the bloodstream, it needs to hijack certain cells to replicate and spread. Cabotegravir blocks this process by interfering with the virus’s ability to integrate into the genetic material of healthy cells. By doing so, it stops HIV in its tracks before it can establish an infection.

The injection is administered into the muscle, where it slowly releases the drug over several weeks. This slow-release mechanism ensures continuous protection without the need for daily doses. For many users, this makes staying on PrEP easier and more discreet.

Why is Injectable PrEP Important?

Rwanda’s decision to introduce injectable PrEP addresses some of the challenges faced with oral PrEP. Many individuals find it difficult to adhere to a daily pill regimen, either because they forget or fear being judged if others see them taking the medication. Injectable PrEP eliminates the daily routine and offers a more private and convenient option.

Additionally, the injections provide a long-term solution for protection, reducing the risk of missed doses. Studies have shown that injectable PrEP is just as effective as oral PrEP when used correctly, making it a promising tool in the fight against HIV.

Who Can Benefit?

Long-acting injectable PrEP is especially useful for individuals at higher risk of HIV exposure, including key populations such as sex workers, men who have sex with men, and people in serodiscordant relationships (where one partner is HIV-positive, and the other is HIV-negative). It is also suitable for individuals who may find it difficult to maintain a daily pill regimen due to busy lifestyles or other challenges.

A Step Forward for Rwanda

By piloting injectable PrEP at the Gikondo and Busanza health centers, Rwanda is demonstrating its commitment to innovative HIV prevention strategies. If successful, the program could be scaled up to reach more people across the country. This initiative not only improves access to prevention methods but also empowers individuals to take control of their health with greater ease and confidence.

It is estimated that there are currently 230,000 people living with HIV/AIDS in Rwanda, with a prevalence rate of 2.7%. The country registers 3,200 new cases every year, with a tally of 2,600 deaths from the disease in the same period.