Disappointing Results from Herpes Research Trial

Results of a recent international clinical trial indicate treatment of genital herpes with daily, suppressive antiviral treatment does not reduce the risk of HIV infection. In what lead researcher Connie Celum called “a surprising, disappointing and important result for HIV prevention,” there was no difference in rates of HIV infection between individuals in the study who received treatment with the antiviral drug acyclovir and those who received a placebo.

The results of the study, presented at the 15th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) held February 3-7 in Boston, found that there was no reduced susceptibility between those on the medication versus those not on it. Researchers believe that a possible reason for the failed approach is due to the fact that acyclovir doesn’t completely rid the body of herpes, nor does it suppress all outbreaks. Dr. Celum suggested the possibility that HSV infections in trial participants did not respond as well to acyclovir than trial planners had anticipated. She also indicated that the research team may also have underestimated the frequency of reactivation of HSV-2 as well and genital immune response.

Despite the disappointing results, Dr. Celum emphasized that additional research is being conducted on the link between HSV and HIV infection that may yield more positive results. Specifically, she cited the “Partners in Prevention” study, which is examining whether or not suppressive therapy in individuals co-infected with genital herpes and HIV reduces their risk of transmitting HIV to sexual partners.

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