Microbicides fail to protect women against HIV infection, most recent study

Submitted by tusabe about 9 months ago

Britain’s medical research council (MRC) has clearly concluded, basing on the most recent trial findings carried out with Pro - 2,000, that the research “showed conclusively that Pro - 2,000 gel was of no added benefit”. The original prediction was that Pro - 2,000 would be able to reduce infection by 30%.

To date, no gel microbicide has shown to work against HIV infection. This bad news was announced during the 5th Forum of the African AIDS Vaccine Program (AAVP) in Kampala, Uganda.

Microbicides are substances that can be applied topically (usually in the vagina and possibly in the rectum) that will reduce the risk of being infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Microbicides can appear in many different forms: gels, creams, films, suppository, sponge and virginal wipe.

Basing on the design, some microbicides would carry a dual-protection mechanism, including acting as contraceptives for women, but they are not yet available to the public and are still being researched in many countries.

The United Nations agencies recommended a three pronged strategy, pointing at primary prevention of HIV among parents to be, prevention of unplanned pregnancies among HIV positive women and the prevention of HIV transmission from HIV positive mothers to their infants during delivery and breast feeding.

If an effective microbicide was ever discovered, it could save very many women from HIV infection, especially those whose partners refuse to use condoms.

Keywords: 5th Forum of the African AIDS Vaccine Program AAVP HIV/AIDS Medical Research Council microbicides prevention

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