Research and development of vaginal mucoadhesive formulations of tenofovir sustained release for HIV prevention

Abstract

As indicated by the World Health Organization, the infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continues to be a serious public health problem worldwide. The high figures registered each year show the need for urgent measures in this respect. Although it is extended throughout the world, the most affected area is sub-Saharan Africa. The sexual transmission of the virus to women, supported by the inequalities between men and women and the violence against them, among other factors, explains much of the shocking data in these countries. For all this, prophylaxis emerges as an essential measure to stop the progress of the infection.Among the different tools intended for preventing the sexual transmission of HIV, microbicides for vaginal administration of antiretroviral drugs are a promising option for women living in the most affected areas, as they would give them the power that they do not have with other strategies such as the use of condom. Tenofovir (TFV) is one of the most studied antiretroviral drugs for both treatment and prevention of the infection which has been included in different vaginal dosage forms (especially gels), some of them having even reached clinical trials. However, the results of studies in advanced stages highlight the need for new formulations which could offer prolonged protection against the virus thus promoting greater adherence by patients...