SAVVY

SAVVY is a topical microbicide vaginal gel containing 1.0% C31G (Glyminox), an amphiphilic surfactant mixture of alkyl dimethyl amine oxides and alkyl dimethyl betaines. Developed by Biosyn (later acquired by Cellegy Pharmaceuticals), SAVVY was investigated as a dual-purpose product for the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and as a non-hormonal contraceptive. Its mechanism of action involves the non-specific disruption of lipid bilayers, effectively neutralizing enveloped viruses like HIV and HSV, as well as lysing sperm and certain bacteria. Despite showing safety and efficacy in early-stage studies, two large-scale Phase 3 trials in Nigeria and Ghana failed to demonstrate a reduction in HIV transmission among high-risk women compared to placebo, leading to the cessation of its development for HIV prophylaxis.

Brand names

SAVVY

Other names

Glyminox1.0% C31G SAVVY vaginal gel