Multipurpose vaginal rings for HIV prevention and non-hormonal contraception

Abstract

Vaginal rings releasing antiretrovirals - either alone or in combination with contraceptive progestins - are being developed for contraception and prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission via vagina. However, hormonal contraceptives are associated with numerous side effects and contraindications, and many women are interested in using hormone-free contraceptives. The aim of this project is to develop multipurpose vaginal rings to release copper and/or zinc ions and dapivirine over a month for contraception and HIV prevention. Ring manufacture, swell testing, and in vitro drug release testing have been conducted. The experimental results obtained currently are encouraging and support the continued development of these ring formulations as a novel and interesting multipurpose prevention technology strategy.