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Lenacapavir: The $40 Breakthrough Drug Changing the Fight Against HIV

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Lenacapavir is being described as one of the most promising tools in the fight against HIV. Known by brand names such as Yeztugo (for prevention) and Sunlenca (for treatment), it belongs to a new class of HIV drugs called capsid inhibitors. Unlike current daily pills, lenacapavir is adminsited as an injection only twice a year. For South Africa, where HIV continues to affect millions, this development could be transformative.

Why Lenacapavir Matters

The HIV capsid is the protective shell around the virus. Lenacapavir works by blocking this shell’s ability to function properly at different stages of the virus’s life cycle. Because targets multiple stages of the virus’s life cycle, it remains effective against HIV strains resistant to other medicines.

Globally, lenacapavir has already been approved for people with multidrug-resistant HIV-1, but it has the potential to be better than pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In July 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended lenacapavir as a new HIV prevention option.

Clinical Results Show Positive Results 

Trials have shown extraordinary results. In one test, cisgender women who received lenacapavir had zero new HIV infections. In another trial, involving cisgender men, transgender, and gender-diverse participants, infection rates dropped by about 96% compared to background levels.

Across both trials, over 99.9 % of participants receiving lenacapavir stayed HIV negative. A large comparison also confirmed that the injection was more effective than the daily pill Truvada.

Read Also : Surprising Connection Between Viagra and Increasing Divorce Rate

South Africa’s HIV Challenge

About 7.8 million South Africans, roughly 12.7 % of the population live with HIV. Each year, more than 200,000 new infections are recorded, with young women and girls leading the way.

Daily PrEP pills come with challenges such as stigma, long clinic visits, and costs. A twice-yearly injection could remove these problems.

When Will It Arrive ?

The  government has signaled interest in rolling out lenacapavir at more than 300 public clinics between 2026 and 2028, especially in high-burden districts. Before that, it needs approval from SAHPRA (South African Health Products Regulatory Authority) and inclusion on the Essential Medicines List, which allows public procurement.

Funding is also a factor. The Global Fund has already budgeted around R513 million to help South Africa secure supplies, even before generics hit the market.

The $40 Breakthrough

In the United States, branded lenacapavir can cost up to USD 28,000 per year, which is expensive for many people. But in September 2025, a global deal was struck that will allow lenacapavir to be available for just USD 40 (about R730) per year across low and middle-income countries, starting in 2027.

This price is lower than what South Africa currently spends on daily PrEP pills, which cost about R629 per person annually . If the country is included in the deal, the cost barrier that has long slowed new HIV technologies could finally be overcome.

Challenges Ahead

Many are looking towards  SAHPRA and other policy bodies to give the greenlight for its use. Clinics will need to adapt by managing injections and tracking patients. Communities need to be educated about the injection and its benefits.

The Bottom Line

Lenacapavir offers a opportunity to reshape the global fight against HIV. With near-100% protection in trials and a plan to bring the price to $40 per year, this is a welcome development.

As HIV continues to affect millions of lives, lenacapavir could become the tool that turns the tide. The next few years are crucial as this breakthrough is expected to change millions of lives.

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Exercise May Aid Stroke Recovery by Transporting Mitochondria to the Brain

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Photo: Getty Images

Exercise may support recovery after a stroke by facilitating the transfer of healthy mitochondria to damaged areas of the brain. Mitochondria are small structures inside cells that produce energy. After a stroke, many brain cells lose their energy supply. Exercise may help cellular energy production and improve neurological recovery.

Exercise Boosts the Release of Healthy Mitochondria

Exercise Drills: Istock

Regular exercise increases mitochondrial production. During physical activity, cells are stimulated to make more mitochondria. Some supporting cells can release healthy mitochondria into the surrounding environment. However, knowing the best time to workout is ideal for better results.

Research suggests that these mitochondria can move beyond their original cells. Exercise may increase this release, creating a greater availability of healthy mitochondria that the body can use to support damaged brain tissues.

Exercise Improves Blood Flow that Carries Mitochondria

Strength Exercise: IStock

Exercise increases blood circulation. With increased blood flow, oxygen, nutrients, and cellular components circulate easily. This improved circulation helps transport mitochondrial signals toward the brain.

After a stroke, blood flow to the affected brain is limited. By engaging in regular exercise, circulation improves. This may increase the likelihood that healthy mitochondria reach affected brain cells.

Exercise helps Brain Cells Receive Mitochondria

Exercise triggers the release of chemical signals that helps repair themselves. These signals may help brain cells take in healthy mitochondria from nearby cells. This process may support energy production inside damaged neurons.

Once inside the brain cells, healthy mitochondria can improve cellular energy production and reduce cellular repair. This may help neurons survive and regain function after stroke.

Read also : Fiber Supplements That Support Weight Management and Brain Health

Exercise Supports Mitochondrial Repair inside the Brain

Arms exercises: IStock

Physical activity also improves the health of mitochondria already present in brain cells. Exercise supports cellular repair systems that remove to clean damaged mitochondria and replace them with healthier ones.

This process supports better energy use and reduces damaging byproducts inside brain cells. Stronger mitochondrial function allows the brain to promote healing and rebuild lost connections after a stroke.

Exercise Strengthens Brain Recovery through Energy Support

Recovery after stroke depends on the brain’s ability to form new pathways. This process requires energy. With better mitochondrial delivery and function, exercise may provide the required energy for motor recovery.

Safe exercise programs are commonly used in stroke rehabilitation. Aside from strength and balance, these activities may help the brain recover more effectively.

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Fiber Supplements That Support Weight Management and Brain Health

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Fiber supplements are increasingly recognized for their potential to aid weight management and contribute to cognitive health. While not a replacement for a balanced diet or medical guidance, research indicates that specific fibers, particularly soluble and prebiotic types, can influence appetite, metabolism, and gut-brain communication.

Dietary fiber is a carbohydrate the body cannot fully digest. Soluble fibers, including psyllium, inulin, and beta-glucans, absorb water in the gut, slow digestion, and help create a sense of fullness. Insoluble fibers support regular bowel movements and overall digestive function. Introducing fiber supplements can help supplement dietary intake, particularly when daily fiber consumption is low.

Photo Credit – Google

Clinical studies show measurable effects on weight management. In a randomized trial, participants taking a multi-fiber supplement, containing glucomannan, psyllium, inulin, and apple fiber, experienced greater reductions in body weight, body mass index, and visceral fat than those taking a placebo. Improvements in inflammatory markers were also observed. Other trials demonstrated that supplementing 5–7 grams of fiber daily alongside a reduced-calorie diet enhanced weight loss compared with diet alone, likely due to increased satiety and slower gastric emptying.

Photo Credit – Google

Emerging research also links fiber intake to cognitive outcomes. Observational studies show that higher total fiber intake correlates with better performance on memory and processing-speed tests in older adults. Some trials with prebiotic fibers, such as inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides, found that participants over 60 experienced improvements in memory tests and gut microbiome composition after 12 weeks of supplementation. These findings suggest that fiber’s effects on inflammation, blood sugar stability, and gut bacteria may contribute to brain health, although more research is needed to establish causation.

Photo Credit – Google

Certain fiber supplements have the strongest evidence base. Psyllium husk is well-documented for weight management and cholesterol regulation. Glucomannan is valued for its high viscosity and appetite-regulating properties. Inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides act as prebiotics, supporting beneficial gut bacteria and the gut-brain axis. Beta-glucans from oats or barley contribute soluble fiber that promotes fullness and metabolic regulation.

Practical considerations are important. Effective doses in studies typically range from several grams per day, and benefits are most pronounced when supplements complement a balanced diet. Sudden increases in fiber can cause bloating or gas, so gradual introduction with adequate water is recommended. Fiber supplements support dietary strategies, but they are not standalone solutions for weight loss or cognitive enhancement.

Photo Credit – Google

In conclusion, fiber supplements, particularly soluble and prebiotic varieties, can enhance weight management efforts and support factors linked to cognitive function. They help regulate appetite, influence metabolic signals, and contribute to gut-brain interactions. While not a cure or replacement for healthy lifestyle practices, incorporating fiber supplements offers measurable benefits for metabolic and brain health.

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Does Creatine Work for Weight Loss?

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About Creatine 

Creatine is a natural element that is found in the body and in foods such as fish. It can be found in the muscles and gives the body energy during physical activities. However, in sports or when engaging in fitness activities take Creatine supplements.

How Creatine Works in the Body 

Creatine :Iherb

Creatine helps produce ATP, a molecule that is a huge source of energy. When your creatine levels diminish, it helps replenish them. This is one of the reasons why it is associated with strength gain and improved performance.

 

Read Also : 7 Vitamins that Supercharge your Body and Brain

Does Creatine Cause Weight Loss? 

Creatine : Wellness Blog

Using Creatine doesn’t lead to actual weight loss in the real sense. Also, it doesn’t increase fat burning nor reduce appetite. Some people even note the slight gain in weight after using it for some time. This is because there is water drawn into the muscles when used regularly.

How can Creatine support Weight Loss Indirectly? 

Creatine ‘ Ubuy

Although Creatine doesn’t burn fat, it can help support weight loss indirectly. Because it improves performance, taking Creatine can lead you to train harder. When your workouts increase, there will be an increase in the burning of calories. If this is sustained it can support fat loss, when combined with a good diet.

Why Should You Consider Using Creatine? 

Creatine : Amazon

Creatine is a good choice for those who indulge in workouts and high-intensity training. It also benefits those who want to maintain muscle and strength support for the long term. However, you shouldn’t substitute it for proper nutrition or regular physical activities.

Creatine isn’t a weight loss solution but it helps increase energy levels. While it can’t reduce body fat directly, it can make workout mode effective. When used in combination with a balanced diet and regular exercise, it leads to a healthier body.

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