A new condom produced by Australian bio-tech firm Starpharma in partnership with another firm called Ansell could be available in the condom market within months after key regulatory approval. The condom known as VivaGel was designed to kill the HIV virus. Tests have shown that VivaGel condom is effective in deactivating 99.9 per cent of HIV, herpes and human papilloma virus cases.
Australian bio-tech firm Starpharma has developed the antiviral Viva Gel, the active ingredient designed to tackle sexually transmitted infections, in the condom's lubricant.The product has now received a receipt of Conformity of Assessment Certification by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration - a similar certificate to the CE mark in Europe - paving the way for mass production. It means the condom, the first of its kind, should 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.
It is hoped the gel will help reduce the transmission of HIV and other STIs, while also reducing the risk of pregnancy.
...This is a major breakthrough for those that wants to keep enjoying sex without the fear of contracting any disease. What about those that already have the disease? Scientists should also do their best to help combat the dreaded HIV virus and get rid of it forever...