First Microbicide Shows Ability to Block HIV Infection

For the first time, a microbicide gel -- intended to be used by women during sex -- has been shown to help prevent HIV infection. In a randomized controlled trial, a gel containing the nucleotide analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor tenofovir (Viread) reduced the risk of women acquiring HIV by 39% compared with a placebo gel, according to Quarraisha Abdool Karim, PhD, of the Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) in Durban.

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