-.webp)
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication taken by people who are HIV-negative to reduce their risk of HIV infection. It’s most commonly prescribed as a once-a-day pill, but newer injectable PrEP options can provide the same (or greater) level of HIV protection with as little as two doses per year.
Yeztugo (lenacapavir) is the newest and longest-acting type of injectable PrEP, with one dose providing 6 months of HIV protection.
Healthcare experts are excited about long-acting PrEP options like Yeztugo because their infrequent dosing schedules could make HIV prevention more accessible for a broader range of lifestyles. But that raises the question — who can actually take Yeztugo?
In this guide, we’ll cover who Yeztugo is approved for and how it compares to other types of PrEP so you can have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider about your options.
Who is Yeztugo approved for?
Like all forms of PrEP, Yeztugo can only be taken by people that are HIV-negative. PrEP cannot cure or treat HIV, and taking PrEP while already living with HIV can create complications.
Yeztugo is approved for most people who are at risk of HIV through receptive penetrative sex, regardless of gender or body type.
At this time, Yeztugo is not approved for people who want PrEP protection related to injection drug use, such as sharing syringes.
Taking Yeztugo during pregnancy
Large-scale clinical trials have not shown any adverse effects of taking Yeztugo (lenacapavir) while pregnant:
- No increase in miscarriage or adverse outcomes compared to other groups.
- The rate of major birth defects in pregnancies exposed to lenacapavir did not exceed background rates in the general population.
- Lenacapavir has been found in human milk at very low levels.
- Infants who were breastfed by people taking lenacapavir did not experience adverse effects.
These results are encouraging, but research is ongoing. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is best to review your options with a healthcare provider before starting PrEP. Trial data so far suggests Yeztugo could be a safe option for women during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but these decisions should always be made with your provider.
How does Yeztugo compare to other PrEP options?
There are currently four FDA-approved options for PrEP in the United States:
- Truvada (emtricitabine/tenofovir): Daily pill
- Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide): Daily pill
- Apretude (cabotegravir): Injection every 2 months)
- Yeztugo (lenacapavir): Injection every 6 months)
Each form of PrEP is highly effective, but the right choice depends on your health, preferences, and circumstances. Here’s how Yeztugo stacks up against other options:
Truvada (daily pill)
Truvada works for people of all body types and gender identities. It is also the only PrEP medication approved for use by people who inject drugs. Truvada can sometimes affect kidney function, although this is rare. Your provider will check your kidney function before prescribing it and will repeat tests while you are taking it to monitor kidney health.
Descovy (daily pill)
Descovy is similar to Truvada, but it is not approved for preventing HIV through receptive vaginal sex. Descovy is generally easier on kidney function and has shown fewer kidney-related side effects compared to Truvada.
Apretude (injection every 2 months)
Apretude can be used by people of any gender and body type, just like Yeztugo. The main difference between Apretude and Yeztugo is the dosing schedule — Apretude requires injections every two months instead of every six. Some people prefer Apretude if they want injectable PrEP but are not comfortable with longer intervals between doses. For a detailed breakdown of the two, see our full comparison: Injectable PrEP Compared — Yeztugo & Apretude.
What about side effects?
The most common side effects of all forms of PrEP include headaches, nausea, fatigue and diarrhea. These are typically mild and resolve within a few weeks.
Injectable PrEP can result in reactions at the site of the injection, including swelling and redness.
More serious side effects are rare and depend on the type of PrEP. Learn more in our guide, PrEP Side Effects: Oral Pills & Injectables Compared.
The bottom line
Yeztugo is approved for most people who are at risk of HIV through all forms of sex. Current data also suggests it could be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but more studies are needed.
Yeztugo’s 6-month dosing schedule could provide a more consistent level of protection for people who face challenges in taking a pill every day, making it a valuable new option for HIV prevention.
All forms of PrEP are nearly equally effective in preventing HIV when taken as prescribed. The right choice depends on your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. The best next step is to talk with a healthcare provider who understands PrEP.
If you’re curious about whether Yeztugo or another option could be right for you, Freddie can help by reviewing your health history, answering your questions, and guiding you toward the option that fits your life. You can start the conversation online for free, and get support every step of the way.
.webp)
