PrEP Shortage in Australia Sparks Urgent Call for Users to Plan Ahead and Protect Health

Australia is currently facing a shortage of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a critical medication for preventing HIV transmission among high-risk populations. As health organizations sound the alarm, users of this life-saving drug are urged to take proactive measures to ensure they do not run out. PrEP, a combination of tenofovir and emtricitabine, is an antiretroviral medication that has proven to be highly effective in reducing the risk of HIV infection—boasting a 99% efficacy rate among gay and bisexual men when taken consistently. Since its availability on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in 2018, it has been hailed as a transformative solution for tackling the HIV epidemic in Australia. However, reports from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) indicate that multiple brands of PrEP are currently in short supply. The TGA has acknowledged complications arising from manufacturing issues and commercial changes, which have impacted the availability of this crucial medication. In response to the crisis, the TGA has approved the importation of overseas-registered PrEP tablets to help mitigate the shortage. Matthew Vaughan, director of HIV and sexual health at Acon, has urged users to plan ahead rather than waiting until their supply runs low. “If you are currently taking PrEP, please do not leave restocking your medication to the last minute,” Vaughan advised. He highlighted the possibility of needing to visit multiple pharmacies to find a supply, and cautioned that there may be restrictions on the number of bottles available per visit. For those struggling to obtain PrEP locally, Vaughan recommended exploring online options through services like PrEP Access Now. In the midst of this shortage, Vaughan also suggested that individuals who do not engage in frequent sexual activity might consider an on-demand dosing schedule, which can still offer protection against HIV. While he acknowledged the current situation is concerning, Vaughan expressed confidence that the supply issues will be resolved in the coming months. The urgency of this situation is underscored by recent data from the Kirby Institute, which revealed an increase in new HIV diagnoses in Australia. In 2023, the country reported 722 new cases, up from 553 in 2022. Despite this rise, the numbers remain significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels, continuing a trend of overall declines in annual diagnoses. Dr. Skye McGregor from the Kirby Institute attributed this increase to the resumption of pre-pandemic sexual behaviors and movements of people. Over the past decade, Australia has seen a 33% reduction in HIV diagnoses, with an impressive 64% decline among Australian-born gay and bisexual men. These figures reflect the effectiveness of ongoing strategies aimed at eliminating HIV transmission, which include routine testing, the promotion of PrEP, and effective treatments. However, Prof. Andrew Grulich from the Kirby Institute cautioned that disparities exist within HIV prevention coverage. A 2024 report indicated that while overall PrEP uptake is high, populations such as those under 25, bisexual men, and individuals in suburban and regional areas are less likely to use PrEP, putting them at greater risk. "We have the strategies and technologies to eliminate HIV transmission in Australia," Grulich stated. He emphasized the need for targeted efforts to ensure that PrEP and other preventive measures reach those who need them most, in order to sustain the progress made in combating this public health issue. As Australia navigates this critical juncture, it remains imperative for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to collaborate in ensuring that every individual at risk of HIV has access to the necessary resources, including PrEP, to safeguard their health.