Long-acting multipurpose prevention technology (MPT) implants to prevent HIV & unintended pregnancy
Thursday, July 17, 2025
11:49 AM - 12:00 PM EDT
Location: 124
Introduction: MPTs synergize prevention approaches by combining protection against HIV and unintended pregnancies and can improve health outcomes by providing singular products that simplify use, lower burden, and have higher acceptability.(1) We developed a biodegradable MPT implant that sustainably releases an antiretroviral, islatravir (ISL), and a contraceptive hormone, etonogestrel (ENG). With simultaneous release of ISL and ENG from a single rod that is compatible with market-available trocars, we present an innovative strategy to address women’s overlapping sexual and reproductive health risks.
Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants will know
Learn about a long-acting biodegradable implant that delivers an antiretroviral and a contraceptive.
The single-rod multi-prevention implant strategy simplifies administration and improves adherence.
Leanna Levin – Chemist, RTI International; Rhonda Brand – Associate Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, PA; Amanda Swistok – Laboratory Manager, Department of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; Mackenzie Cottrell – Associate Professor, Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC; Greg Gatto – Senior Research Pharmacologist, RTI International; Ellen Luecke – Project Manager, RTI International; Leah Johnson – Senior Director, RTI International
