Global Campaign for Microbicides praises CAPRISA 004 gel trial for women's HIV prevention

Jul 20 2010

CAPRISA 004 trial shows moderate protection against transmission of virus

Results of an advanced clinical trial of an antiretroviral-based microbicide candidate are being announced at the International AIDS Conference in Vienna, Austria. The CAPRISA 004 trial, which tested the safety and effectiveness of 1% tenofovir gel among nearly 900 women at two sites in South Africa, found that using the gel before and after sex provided moderate protection against sexually transmitted HIV.

"This is an important day," said Yasmin Halima, director of the Global Campaign for Microbicides. "We now have evidence that a vaginal gel can help prevent HIV. This is good news for women, good news for the field, and a good day for science."

"Today's news energizes the field," Halima said. "We hope it urges others to support the expansion of programs for developing topical HIV-prevention products. Globally, millions remain at risk of HIV, and yet to date, there are few options to prevent infection, especially for women."

"While we pause to mark this important milestone, we can't afford to idle," she said. "We must keep up the momentum. We won't rest until there are tools for HIV prevention in women's hands. With the support of donors, governments, scientists, and communities working together, the HIV-prevention field can accelerate efforts to halt the pandemic, focusing on the world's most vulnerable people. Today's news brings us one step closer to that brighter future."