title: Antiretroviral drug-based microbicides to prevent HIV-1 sexual transmission.
abstract: The development of a vaginal (and perhaps a rectal) microbicide would be of major benefit for slowing the global spread of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). A microbicide is a gel or related device that, when inserted vaginally or rectally, acts to prevent infection of a woman or a man by HIV-1 during sexual intercourse. A practical microbicide must be not only effective, safe, and user-friendly but also economically affordable in the developing world. To date, the performance of microbicide candidates in efficacy trials has been disappointing, but next-generation concepts now in or approaching clinical trials offer improved prospects for efficacy. The most plausible approaches involve topical application of antiretroviral agents with specific activity against HIV-1, compounds similar to drugs used to treat HIV-1 infection. How these inhibitors are applied may also be critical, with sustained-release formulations and vaginal ring delivery systems now becoming a high priority.
authors: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York 10021, USA.
authors: Per Johan
authors: PJ
authors: Klasse
authors: Robin
authors: R
authors: Shattock
authors: John P
authors: JP
authors: Moore
mesh_terms: D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission*; D015497:HIV-1; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies
chemical_list: D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies