The CerCap HIV, a drug-eluting, cervical barrier cap that provides the dual benefits of contraception and prevention of HIV, is a result of the development of proven female barrier contraceptive technologies using medical grade silicone embedded with a spermicidal agent and based on an innovative and proprietary design.
The silicone biomaterial used is non-allergenic and biocompatible and it can be safely left in place for 21 days, it offers women the prospect of privacy as well as real spontaneity in sexual relations.
An anti-HIV drug is released over time dramatically reduces the risk of acquiring an HIV infection. The dramatic increase in of STIs including HIV among younger and younger women means that there will be increased opportunities for an effective contraceptive capable of delivering localized drug treatment.
The CerCap HIV is designed to permit delivery of compounds such as levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestin used in oral and implantable contraceptives and tenofovir, an anti-retroviral approved for treatment of HIV. CerMed has developed relationships with several pharmaceutical companies to provide these drugs (three in test at this time) for use in the CerCap HIV device. CerMed is also working closely with several of the world’s leading experts on the development of drug elution barrier contraception.
Main characteristics of CerCap
- Female-initiated and controlled.
- Elutes drug for reduced risk of infection with HIV.
- Disposable for better hygienic solution.
- Effective for up to 21 days.
- Elutes drug for ovulation control (contraceptive).
CerCap™ is a trademark of CerMed Corporation.