Gilead raises 2026 HIV sales growth forecast to 8% on Yeztugo momentum

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Summary · why it matters

Gilead Sciences has raised its 2026 HIV sales growth forecast to approximately 8% year over year, up from a prior guidance of 6%, driven by increased expectations for its twice-yearly injectable lenacapavir, branded Yeztugo. The approval of injectable lenacapavir, a first-in-class capsid inhibitor, has solidified Gilead's HIV portfolio, offering meaningful adherence advantages over daily oral regimens and targeting a broad patient population. Biktarvy continues to hold more than 52% market share as the most prescribed HIV treatment, while Descovy demand remains strong. Gilead and Merck also reported positive phase III results for a once-weekly oral regimen of islatravir plus lenacapavir, which was non-inferior to daily standard-of-care treatments including Biktarvy at week 48. With no significant loss-of-exclusivity events expected until 2036 and up to seven new HIV therapies potentially launching by 2033, Gilead's HIV franchise is positioned for sustained long-term growth.