NIMR DEVELOPS NOVEL MICROBICIDE GEL TO PREVENT HIV IN WOMEN

A breakthrough vaginal gel that blocks HIV is in the works as Nigerian researchers aim to protect millions of women from infection.The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) is creating a smart microbicide gel designed to prevent HIV transmission in women. Dr. Sabdat Ekama revealed the gel contains two anti-HIV agents and uses temperature-sensitive technology to prevent leakage — a major problem in past gels.

With women disproportionately affected by HIV through heterosexual transmission, this innovation targets gaps where previous prevention methods struggled with adherence due to discomfort or cultural barriers. The gel is currently at the preclinical stage with promising safety and effectiveness results in lab and animal studies, setting the stage for human trials soon.

This novel approach could revolutionize HIV prevention by providing a woman-controlled method that’s easier and more reliable to use.