DARE-NHC

DARE-NHC is an investigational intravaginal ring (IVR) developed by Daré Bioscience for the localized, sustained delivery of N-hydroxycytidine (NHC). NHC is the active metabolite of the antiviral prodrug molnupiravir. The product is primarily being explored for the treatment of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections, including cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). NHC acts as a ribonucleoside analog that is incorporated into viral genetic material by viral polymerases. Once incorporated, it induces a high frequency of mutations during viral replication and transcription—a process known as viral error catastrophe—which leads to the production of non-functional viral particles and inhibits further replication. The vaginal ring platform is designed to provide high concentrations of the antiviral agent directly to the site of infection (the cervix and vaginal epithelium) over several days, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes while minimizing systemic exposure and associated side effects.

Other names

N-hydroxycytidine vaginal ringNHC vaginal ring