Microbicide Vaginal Gel Trials Halted

Phase III trials of an anti-HIV gel that many felt could be a huge weapon in the fight against HIV especially in hard hit areas such as Africa have been shut down. The most current data shows that the gel in fact increases that risk of HIV infection. Toronto-based drug manufacturer Polydex Pharmaceuticals, makers of the gel has reported woman appear to be more susceptible to HIV when using the gel. The cotton-derived gel marketed under the name Ushercell is being tested in South Africa, India, Nigeria, and Uganda. The World Health Organization (WHO) is halting their trial of the same product. Researchers say that the reason for the failure is not yet clear.

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