Trial: A Phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of suppressive acyclovir treatment for the reduction of HIV acquisition among high risk HSV-2 seropositive, HIV-seronegative individuals

Rationale: The presence of genital ulcers caused by herpes simplex virus type 2, or HSV-2, has been suggested as a possible risk factor for becoming infected with HIV. This study tested the hypothesis that untreated HSV-2 infection increases an individual's risk of becoming infected with HIV.

Study question(s): Does suppressive treatment of HSV-2 in HIV-negative people who have HSV-2 reduce their risk of HIV infection?

Participants: 2,820 HIV-negative women, gay men, and other men who have sex with men

Countries: Peru, South Africa, US, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Trial sponsors and collaborators: University of Washington, US National Institutes of Health (NIH)

When were results released? Results were announced February 2008. There was no evidence of benefit. 

To learn more visit:

http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140673608609204/fulltext

http://www.hptn.org/research_studies/hptn039.asp

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00076232?term=HPTN+039&rank=1