Simultaneous delivery of tenofovir and acyclovir via an intravaginal ring

Vaginal microbicides may play an important role in protecting women from HIV infection. A strong synergy between HSV and HIV has been observed, and epidemiological studies demonstrate that HSV infection increases the risk of HIV acquisition. Incorporation of the antiretroviral tenofovir (TFV) along with the antiherpetic acyclovir (ACV) into combination intravaginal rings (IVRs) for sustained mucosal delivery of both compounds could lead to increased microbicide product adherence and efficacy compared with conventional vaginal formulations. A novel, dual-protection "pod IVR" platform developed in-house and delivering ACV and TFV was evaluated in rabbit and sheep models. The devices were safe and exhibited sustained release of both drugs independently and at controlled rates over the 28-day studies. Daily release rates were estimated based on residual drug content of the used devices: rabbits, 343±335μg day^-1 (ACV) and 321±207μg day^-1 (TFV); sheep, 174±14μg day^-1 (ACV) and 185±34μg day ^-1 (TFV). Mean drug levels in sheep vaginal samples were as follows: secretions, 5.25±7.31μg ml^-1 (ACV) and 20.6±16. 2μg ml^-1 (TFV); cervicovaginal lavage fluid, 118±113 ng ml^-1 (ACV) and 191±125 ng ml^-1 (TFV); tissue, 173 ng g^-1 (ACV) and 93 ng g^-1 (TFV). An in vitro-in vivo correlation was established for both drugs and will allow the development of future formulations delivering target levels for prophylaxis and therapy. These data suggest that the IVR based on the pod design has potential in the prevention of transmission of HIV-1 and other sexually transmitted pathogens.