Dapivirinecontaining

Dapivirine-containing products are pharmaceutical formulations that include dapivirine, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor used to reduce the risk of HIV-1 infection. The most studied form is the dapivirine vaginal ring, a silicone or polymer device inserted into the vagina that releases dapivirine over about 28 days. Dapivirine-containing products have also been explored in other topical forms, including vaginal gels and films, designed to deliver the drug locally with minimal systemic exposure.

In clinical development, trials have evaluated the ring’s ability to lower HIV-1 acquisition among women in high-prevalence settings. Results have shown reductions in infection risk under real-world use, with efficacy linked to consistent adherence and user age. Safety findings have generally been favorable, with adverse events similar to placebo or background rates, and most product-related effects being local in nature, such as vaginal irritation or discharge.

Regulatory status varies by country and region. The dapivirine vaginal ring has undergone regulatory review in several jurisdictions, with approvals granted in some places and continued evaluation in others; research continues to optimize dosing, delivery, and safety for broader use. Other dapivirine-containing formulations continue to be investigated to expand options for HIV-1 prevention.

Dapivirine’s mechanism is to reversibly inhibit HIV reverse transcriptase, reducing viral replication in mucosal tissues and thereby lowering the probability of establishing infection after exposure.