|
Frequently Asked Questions
- Microbicides
What are microbicides?
Microbicides are substances used in the vagina or rectum to help prevent
sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. They are not yet available,
but scientists are testing them to determine if they are safe and how well they
work.
How are microbicides used?
Microbicides are used as a gel, cream or suppository to be put into the vagina
or rectum before having sex.
Are microbicides safe?
All new microbicides have to pass strict tests to make sure they are safe before
they are made available to people.
How do microbicides work?
Microbicides can work in several different ways, including:
- They can block viruses or bacteria from
infecting the vagina or rectum
- They can kill or weaken STDs
- They can strengthen a person's immune system
to prevent the infection from taking hold
Describe the microbicide
products that are being tested in the HPTN.
Four microbicide products are being tested in the HPTN. They include:
- PRO 2000 Gel - stops HIV from entering cells
- Buffer Gel -maintains the normal acidic
environment of the vagina, which may kill HIV
- PMPA -like some drugs used to treat HIV, stops
HIV from multiplying in cells
- Cellulose Sulfate (CS) - stops HIV from
entering cells
Will microbicides replace the
need for condoms?
No. Condoms offer the best known protection against STDs and HIV when they are
used correctly. But many women can't control whether the man uses a condom, and
microbicides would offer them some protection.
What if a woman wants to get
pregnant?
Research is being done on both microbicides that allow women to get pregnant and
microbicides that prevent pregnancy. Women's health groups advocate for both
types of products.
|
