A new condom capable of deactivating 99.9 per cent of HIV, herpes and human papilloma virus cases has been designed – and it could be available for purchase within months, after key regulatory approval.
Starpharma, an Australian bio-tech firm has developed the antiviral Viva Gel, the active ingredient designed to tackle sexually transmitted infections, in the condom’s lubricant.
The condom, which is the first of its kind, would be available to buy in the coming months. The condoms are lubricated with VivaGel, which contains 0.5 per cent astodrimer sodium – a non-antibiotic, antimicrobial drug designed specifically as a compound against HIV.
The product has now received a receipt of Conformity of Assessment Certification by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration, which paves the way for mass production.
With the imminent public release, the gel would help reduce the transmission of HIV and other STIs, while also reducing the risk of pregnancy.
Starpharma partnered with Ansell, which is responsible for around 70 per cent of Australia’s condom market, to create to the new line of Antiviral gel condoms. The recent TGA approval came after the condom was assessed in line with a set of requirements relating to safety and performance.
Peter Carroll, Ansell president, said consumers could expect to see the ‘ground-breaking new sexual health’ product on the shelves soon.
He said, ‘Ansell looks forward to rolling out its marketing and sales campaign to support the launch of LifeStyles Dual Protect over the coming months with the first product expected to be available on shelves soon.’
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