Test tube research shows Astroglide personal lubricant kills the AIDS-causing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by destroying infected cells on contact, according to a Texas immunologist and microbiologist presenting research to a major antiviral research conference here. But Astroglide's makers caution that much more testing is needed before they'll tell customers the lubricant is a guaranteed AIDS-killer - and they're going to help finance continuing study.
Dr. Samuel Baron of the University of Texas told the conference Astroglide shows at least promise in blocking HIV transmission by not only killing the virus but also destroying the white blood cells (leukocytes) which a growing number of researchers think carry the virus in semen. But he cautioned that, even if any clinical trials support the test tube findings, Astroglide and similar lubricants should only supplement and not replace condoms as the prime HIV preventative for now.
"Although this news is very promising," says Dennis Paradise of Paradise Marketing Services, which markets Astroglide, "we cannot assume or advise our customers that Astroglide reduces the risk of infection without confirming research and extensive human trials…the clinical trials are absolutely necessary for approval from Food and Drug Administration for use in reducing the risk of HIV infection."
Paradise said past test tube study showed another spermicide, Nonoxynol-9, kills HIV in test tubes but was found, in human trials, actually to help HIV transmission, by irritating rectal and vaginal membranes and opening a path for the virus to travel.
"However, in light of the positive nature of Dr. Baron's research," Paradise continued, "financing for the clinical trials has been committed and we are hopeful of positive results to support the initial findings."
