Long-Acting HIV Prevention: Cabotegravir Arrives in France

A new, long-acting injectable treatment for HIV prevention, cabotegravir, is now available in France as of March 2, 2026, marking a significant advancement in HIV prevention strategies. This development offers a new option for individuals at risk of HIV infection, moving beyond daily oral medication.

What is Cabotegravir?

Cabotegravir, marketed as Apretude® by ViiV Healthcare (a subsidiary of GSK), is a long-acting injectable form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Unlike traditional PrEP, which requires daily oral medication, cabotegravir provides protection with injections administered every two months. The first two injections are given four weeks apart, with subsequent injections every eight weeks. Protection against HIV is achieved seven days after the first injection, allowing for a one-week window before or after the scheduled injection date [1].

Pricing and Coverage

The public price of Apretude® suspension injectable has been set at 1312.07€ per injection in France [1]. The injectable form of cabotegravir is fully covered by the French healthcare system, as of March 2, 2026 [2]. The oral form of cabotegravir is priced at 690.27€ [1].

Who is Eligible?

While a significant step forward, cabotegravir is not suitable for everyone. The French High Authority for Health (HAS) does not recommend this treatment for women of childbearing age due to a potential risk of fetal malformations. Prescription is possible, but requires warning patients of the potential risks and ensuring effective contraception is used [1]. Individuals already living with HIV are also not eligible for this preventative treatment.

Remaining Considerations

Despite the positive development, some uncertainties remain. The association Aides highlights that an HIV viral load test is still required before starting cabotegravir, and the cost of this test is not fully covered by the healthcare system, potentially requiring out-of-pocket expenses or insurance coverage [1]. Further details regarding restrictions of use and specific deployment conditions are expected to be clarified soon.

Key Takeaways

• Cabotegravir is a long-acting injectable PrEP option now available in France.
• It requires injections every two months, offering a convenient alternative to daily oral PrEP.
• The injectable form is fully covered by French healthcare, priced at 1312.07€ per injection.
• It is not recommended for women of childbearing age or individuals already living with HIV.
• An HIV viral load test is required before starting treatment, with associated costs not fully covered.