Updates on HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Latin America: Available Drugs and Implementation Status
Author(s)
Christian Gonzales-Gavancho
Julieta M. Araoz-Salinas
Ruth Ramon Tapia
Carlos Quispe‐Vicuña
Martín E. Reategui-Garcia
Wagner Rios-García
María J. Baltodano-Calle
Ivana Belanovic-Ramirez
Allison N Ortiz-Pardo
Brando Ortiz-Saavedra
Víctor Yosef Melt Campos
Jose Armando Gonzales Zamora
Date Issued
1 de marzo de 2025
Type
Other
Volume
33
Issue
1
Start Page
29
End Page
49
Abstract
Latin America has reported a 9% increase in new HIV infections from 2010 to 2023. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a crucial biomedical intervention for preventing HIV transmission. Currently, several antiretroviral drugs, in various forms of administration, have demonstrated high efficacy and effectiveness to protect against HIV. Among the oral drugs, we have emtricitabine/tenofovir and emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide, while alternative options include the dapivirine vaginal ring, injectable drugs such as Cabotegravir, and the most recently studied Lenacapavir. Despite their high efficacy and effectiveness, implementing PrEP in Latin America has been challenging throughout the region. Although some countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia have shown progress in increasing the number of users, there is a significant gap between these countries and others where PrEP access remains limited or non-existent. Barriers such as lack of awareness, inadequate funding, political instability, and outdated policies contribute to disparities in access, leaving many populations at high risk of HIV infection without this preventative measure. Innovative strategies need to be implemented to address and monitor policies that ensure access for all at-risk populations.
Subjects