Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1997. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
PR Newswire, 810 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019 - Monday, 12 May 1997.
According to Dr. Tyrer, "This is good news for women because the results confirm that N-9 delivered via Film does not promote transmission of the deadly virus. VCF is the first N-9 product shown safe in regard to HIV ."
This study was the first randomized in-vivo, placebo controlled HIV study of Nonoxynol-9. It was conducted in Cameroon and compared women who used condoms along with either N-9 Film or a placebo film. While the study did not show whether the Film used alone helped to prevent transmission, it did show that the Film did not increase the risk of transmission.
Some earlier studies suggested frequent use, or high dosages of N-9 might make women more vulnerable to infection by causing vaginal inflammation. This most recent study, using VCF(R) Vaginal Contraceptive Film(TM) with 70mg of N-9 did not show an increase in irritation beyond the generic N-9 sensitivity levels. Other barrier spermicides available range from 52 mg to 150mg, and have not yet been subject to such stringent testing.
Researchers said that VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film was chosen as the N-9 delivery system for this study because it is easy to use, not messy, virtually undetectable by either partner, readily available, and affordable. VCF can be purchased through most retail drug chains and independent pharmacies.
According to Daniel Leon, president of Apothecus Pharmaceutical Corp., manufacturer of VCF, "We remain committed to providing safe, effective and affordable contraception to all those who are in need of it. VCF is sold solely as a contraceptive, but should the continuing searches for a female microbicide prove that N-9 Film does prevent HIV or STD transmission, well then, women will have the best of both worlds."
The quest to determine N-9's potential microbicidal applications continues. Government-sponsored studies in several countries in Africa and Asia, as well as the United States are currently underway.
CONTACT: Deborah Santemma of Apothecus Pharmaceutical, 800-227-2393/
Copyright (c) 1997/PR NewsWire. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Permissions Desk, PR Newswire, 810 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019.
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