A Phase I Multicenter Dose Escalation Safety and Acceptability Study of the Investigational Vaginal Microbicide Agent PRO 2000/5 Gel (P)

Vaginal microbicides are designed to inhibit the sexual transmission of HIV-1 and other disease pathogens. Two Phase I clinical trials were conducted to evaluate the safety and tolerance of the gel, PRO 2000/5, in sexually abstinent volunteers. Both demonstrated that multiple application of the gel was safe and well tolerated in healthy, sexually abstinent women but no clear association between the use of the gel and epithelial disruption was indicated. Because genital ulceration and inflammation may increase the risk of HIV infection, additional clinical evaluation of PRO 2000/5 gel is warranted, especially for study participants with active sexual behavior.

Participants apply PRO 2000/5 gel intravaginally either once or twice daily for 14 days. HIV-negative participants in sexually active cohorts (Cohorts A1-A4) are instructed to engage in vaginal intercourse at least twice a week. Participants in the HIV-positive cohort (Cohort B1) abstain from sexual intercourse for the dosing period. Researchers conduct physical exams to see if the gel is having any harmful effects on the woman's vulva, vagina, or cervix. Women and their male partners are questioned about gel usage.