Topical Microbicides
Topical microbicides are preparations (e.g., gels, creams, or foams) that are applied either vaginally and/or rectally to prevent sexually transmitted infections such as HIV. Ideally, microbicides would be unnoticeable, fast-acting against HIV and a broad range of other sexually transmitted pathogens, inexpensive, safe for use at least one to two times daily, and easy to store.
A topical microbicide may prevent HIV transmission by
- Killing or inactivating pathogens
- Strengthening the body's normal defenses
- Blocking attachment of HIV to susceptible cells
- Preventing infection from spreading to other cells
Research