Researcher says $25 version of Gilead drug could eradicate HIV in USA

For the past few months, CVS Caremark has declined to add a groundbreaking HIV prevention drug from Gilead Sciences to its formularies.

Clinical trials showed the twice-a-year injectable, called Yeztugo, was highly effective in preventing the infectious disease , prompting enthusiasm about combating HIV globally. But the pharmacy benefits manager has argued that the $28,000 price tag — before any rebates or discounts — in the U.S. is too high.

Just the same, other large insurers have started to cover the drug, and Gilead has told Wall Street analysts that about 90% of the targeted patient population should have access by June 2026. However, some critics argue the price will make it difficult to contain the disease in the U.S.

To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscr