The European Commission approved a twice-yearly injection to block HIV, according to drugmaker Gilead Sciences.
The ruling followed a recommendation from the European Medicines Agency one month earlier.
Experts hailed the medicine as a revolutionary step in tackling the HIV epidemic.
Lenacapavir Brings Breakthrough Protection
The drug, named lenacapavir, prevents HIV from multiplying and spreading inside the body.
It works as pre-exposure prophylaxis, lowering infection risks for adults and adolescents.
Clinical trials showed the jab was 100 percent effective, replacing daily pills with two yearly doses.
The injection, sold as Yeytuo, will launch in the EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Global Push for Wider Access
HIV diagnoses rose by 11.8 percent in 2023 across Europe and nearby regions.
The U.S. FDA has already authorized lenacapavir, and WHO endorsed it as a prevention option.
Gilead seeks approvals in Australia, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, and Switzerland, with more countries to follow.
The company also pledged to provide generic versions in 120 low-income nations battling high HIV rates.
Funding cuts in the United States raise doubts about future global access.
Worldwide, HIV affects 40.8 million people, and AIDS-related illnesses killed 630,000 last year.
