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Rectal microbicides: can we make them and will people use them?
1Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Haepatology, and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 204 Craft Ave., Room B505, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. imcgowan@pitt.edu
AIDS and Behavior
|February 19, 2011
Summary
New rectal microbicide gels could offer better HIV prevention for men who have sex with men (MSM). These topical agents aim to improve upon modest results from previous HIV prevention studies.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antiretroviral agents in topical or systemic use show modest HIV risk reduction.
- Poor adherence in previous HIV prevention studies highlights the need for novel approaches.
- High lubricant use among men who have sex with men (MSM) suggests potential for rectal microbicides.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the challenges and progress in developing rectal microbicide gels for HIV prevention.
- To explore a new strategy for HIV prevention tailored to high-risk populations like MSM.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing HIV prevention study data (CAPRISA 004, iPrEx).
- Assessment of the potential for rectal microbicide gel development.
- Analysis of target population (MSM) behavioral factors (lubricant use).
Main Results:
- Antiretroviral agents demonstrate a capacity to reduce HIV acquisition risk.
- Modest effect sizes and adherence issues necessitate alternative prevention methods.
- Rectal microbicide gels present a promising avenue for HIV prevention in MSM.
Conclusions:
- Rectal microbicide gels offer a potentially safe and effective HIV prevention method.
- High acceptability is anticipated among MSM due to existing lubricant use patterns.
- Further development is crucial to overcome challenges and advance rectal microbicide technology.
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