Options simultaneously addressing more than one sexual and reproductive health concern
Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) are products designed to address more than one sexual and reproductive health (SRH) concern. Male and female condoms— which protect against pregnancy as well as HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—are great examples of MPTs that already exist. Many others are in development.
For decades, women, especially young women, have asked for discreet products they can control and that address multiple SRH needs, including prevention of HIV and other STIs, as well as pregnancy prevention. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender individuals have also advocated for products that prevent multiple STIs, including HIV.
Effective, affordable and widely accessible MPTs would save lives and money, improving the health of individuals and communities. Some MPTs are being developed as co-formulations (multiple drugs combined into one product) or co-packaged products (two products administered as a pair). MPTs in development include oral pills, vaginal rings, vaginal films, intra-uterine devices (IUDs), implants, inserts and gels.
Effective access to MPTs will depend on ensuring the programs that one day deliver these products reflect the needs and preferences of end users. Integrating HIV services with sexual and reproductive health will be fundamental to this effort.
There are many MPT products in pre-clinical and clinical trials. A diverse pipeline is an important step towards providing all individuals with options to meet their SRH needs as they change across the lifetime. Read more about the MPT pipeline.
The MPT furthest along in the research process is the Dual Prevention Pill (DPP) — a daily pill for HIV and pregnancy prevention in cisgender women. The DPP combines TDF/FTC-based oral PrEP with oral contraceptives (OC).
Historically, women-centered products have not been an investment or research priority unless pushed by advocates. Coalitions such as CASPR are working to address these needs. Advocacy is crucial to mobilize resources and broad support through all stages of MPT research and development (R&D) and rollout.
podcast
In this episode, we explore advocacy efforts in Uganda for the Dual Prevention Pill (DPP), a new product that combines oral PrEP and contraception. Discover why the DPP is essential for young women and HIV prevention, and learn about the challenges faced in promoting its use.
factsheet
Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) are products designed to simultaneously address more than one sexual and reproductive health concern. This advocates’ guide shows the pipeline of products in development, discusses why MPTs are needed, investment, and what advocates can do to push for MPT development and introduction.
webinar
The new director of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo joined AVAC Executive Director in conversation.
Source: PrEPWatch
Source: PrEPWatch
Source: PrEPWatch
The database allows users to view clinical trials around the world, gaining an understanding of the many developments currently being made in the field of HIV prevention research.