Is NIAID researching other types of microbicides?
Yes, NIAID is exploring other microbicide candidates because different microbicides work in different ways, and it is not yet known which products will work best. Additionally, some microbicides may work better in some women than others, so having more than one potential product available would provide women with more options for preventing HIV infection. The “next generation” microbicides that NIAID is examining are antiretroviral-based gels that have a specific action against HIV. Antiretrovirals are the drugs that have been used successfully to treat HIV in millions of people around the world. Researchers are testing whether incorporating these antiretrovirals into a vaginal gel may also be effective in preventing HIV infection. Currently, NIAID is examining a vaginal gel containing the antiretroviral drug tenofovir.