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MP calls for PrEP manufacturer to take action on World AIDS Day

SNP MP Stewart McDonald has written to Gilead UK to urge the pharmaceutical company to make a submission to the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) for the drug Truvada to be used as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in HIV infection.

The MP for Glasgow South has issued the call on World AIDS Day in the hope that a submission can be made quickly, and at a fair price, so that the use of PrEP can be considered as a part of Scotland’s HIV prevention strategy.

Commenting Stewart McDonald MP said:

“World AIDS Day is an important reminder that, far from being a thing of the past, HIV is one of the fastest-growing serious health conditions in the UK.

“While the outlook for people diagnosed with HIV is very different than it used to be, and while those diagnosed early can live long and healthy lives, we must continue to do everything we can to reduce the spread of HIV as well as the stigma.

“Trials have shown that the use of Truvada as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is very successful in reducing the risk of transmission for those at high risk of getting HIV.

“There can be no room for complacency, so it is vital that Gilead UK make a submission to the Scottish Medicines Consortium quickly, and at a fair price, so that the use of PrEP can be considered as a part of Scotland’s HIV prevention strategy."