Health experts warn of HIV spike amid PrEP shortage in Australia

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has announced shortages of several HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications, raising concerns among healthcare professionals.

Currently, four PrEP products are listed in the TGA’s medicine shortages database, with stock expected to be replenished only between October 2024 and March 2025.

This shortage could impact access to PrEP for over 45,000 Australians who filled at least one prescription last year.

PrEP has played a crucial role in reducing HIV infections by 66% in Victoria and NSW from 2010 to 2019.

So, what exactly is PrEP, how will Australians be supported during this shortage, and should Australia consider manufacturing these medications domestically?

Produced By: Jo Newbury

Featured In Story: Simon Ruth – CEO of Thorne Harbour Health

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 12 September 2024