But, the introduction of dolutegravir into extra well being programmes is dependent upon two issues: what number of generic doses the Colombian authorities buys — and the way rapidly.
“It takes a while for generics to be registered,” mentioned Luz Marina Umbasia, director of the World Humanitarian Progress Company in Colombia.
Umbasia defined that the buying course of usually takes a minimum of six months, though her organisation has inspired the Colombian authorities to purchase doses “as quickly as potential”.
That can enable sufferers entry over the close to time period, whereas the drug remains to be beneath patent. The rights that ViiV Healthcare holds for dolutegravir in Colombia are set to run out in 2026.
Some advocates, nonetheless, doubt Colombia’s skill to coordinate a fast and environment friendly dolutegravir buy. They cited a shortage of hepatitis C drugs final yr that resulted from delays in worth negotiations and provide acquisition.
“We don’t have a great expertise with the Colombian authorities,” mentioned Nestor Alvarez Lara, a pharmacist and president of the advocacy group Excessive Price Sufferers.
He known as on the Colombian authorities to undertake a “very well-planned” rollout of the generic dolutegravir to keep away from the identical dilemmas.
“It’s a must to purchase in massive portions,” he mentioned. “There’s a substantial amount of mistrust that, sooner or later, you might need three months’ provide after which run out of remedy.”
In an announcement to Al Jazeera, the Colombian Ministry of Well being and Social Safety mentioned the federal government is finalising a negotiation to purchase a “steady provide” of dolutegravir by way of the Pan American Well being Group (PAHO).
They anticipate it to develop into out there within the final three months of 2024. Officers plan to begin by buying greater than 800,000 bottles, guaranteeing a yr of remedy for about 67,000 folks.
Villan considers himself fortunate to have converted to dolutegravir. He solely discovered it was an possibility as a result of his husband switched his drugs final yr, and Villan noticed his psychological state rework.
“I met my husband once more,” Villan mentioned.
Villan added that he has helped pals get dolutegravir when their medical health insurance ran out. He hopes the brand new licence will broaden entry and eradicate the uncertainty they face.
“It’s a must to be on steady remedy for it to be efficient,” he mentioned. “Having that confidence, that consistency … we will stay a very undetectable life.”