Women, who were participating in a trial to test if a topical microbicide used during sex would prevent HIV infection, were found to be at an increased risk of getting HIV when using the microbicide gel than the women who used a placebo gel.

Two full-scale trials were stopped yesterday after this huge setback. For the safety of the women involved, the tests could not be continued when and independent scientific committee found there was an increased risk using cellulose sulfate. The tests were done in Africa and India.

The motivation to find a product that a woman can use to protect herself from infection is a high priority. In some countries where HIV/AIDS is rapidly increasing, the men still refuse to wear condoms. There is a push to provide the women in these countries affordable protection the form of an insertable gel, cream, film, tablet, or sponge.

Until a vaccine is found, it is hoped that a safe microbicide can be discovered. The ideal one would kill the virus in the vagina and cervix, prevent viruses from attaching to a woman’s cells, and keep the enzyme that HIV needs to replicate, from being available to do so.

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