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Cellulose sulfate
  Audio

Brand Name: Ushercell  Audio
Drug Class: Microbicides
Cellulose sulfate, or CS, is being studied as an experimental HIV microbicide called Ushercell. Microbicides are substances that protect the body from infection by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Microbicides work by either destroying the microbes or preventing them from establishing an infection.

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Cellulose sulfate is an investigational medicine that is not yet approved by the FDA for use outside of clinical trials. It was being studied for the prevention of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. This medicine does not cure HIV infection or AIDS and was being studied to reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.
Two Phase III studies in HIV uninfected women were stopped in January 2007, because preliminary results at some trial sites indicated that use of cellulose sulfate could lead to an increased risk of HIV infection in women who use this microbicide. In a detailed review of the final trial data, cellulose sulfate displayed no preventive effect on HIV transmission and increased the risk of HIV infection. It will no longer be studied for use as a microbicide to prevent HIV transmission.

Dosage Form/Administration
Cellulose sulfate comes in a topical gel form in prefilled 3.5 ml applicators and is applied vaginally. In clinical trials, cellulose sulfate 6% gel has been applied once or twice daily.

Contraindications
Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects
Along with its desired effects, cellulose sulfate may cause some unwanted effects. While not all of these effects are known, vaginal leaking of gel and slight stinging have been reported.

Drug and Food Interactions
A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Cellulose sulfate.

Manufacturer Information
Cellulose sulfate
  Polydex Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  Sandringham House
  83 Shirley Street
  Nassau,  Bahamas
  242 322 8571
    

Ushercell
  Polydex Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  Sandringham House
  83 Shirley Street
  Nassau,  Bahamas
  242 322 8571
    
Updated September 19, 2007