Extra indication for VivaGel

Melbourne biotech Starpharma [ASX: SPL] has announced plans to adapt the development of its vaginal microbicide VivaGel to incorporate the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.

VivaGel is currently in clinical trials as a prevention against the viruses such as HIV, genital herpes (HSV) and genital warts (HPV), and as a potential contraceptive. This is the first indication for which VivaGel might be used as a treatment.

Early tests suggest that VivaGel is able to reverse the imbalance between vaginal lactobacilli and disease-causing bacteria which is a characteristic of the condition.

Bacterial vaginosis is a major cause of vaginal infection, is implicated in pelvic inflammatory disease and may be associated with an increased risk of STIs and abortion.

Starpharma CEO Dr Jackie Fairley said the application was of interest because of its potential to open up new and rapid paths to market for VivaGel.