Acceptability of potential rectal microbicide delivery systems for HIV prevention: a randomized crossover trial

Abstract

We assessed the acceptability of three of over-the-counter products representative of potential rectal microbicide (RM) delivery systems. From 2009 to 2010, 117 HIV-uninfected males (79 %) and females (21 %) who engage in receptive anal intercourse participated in a 6-week randomized crossover acceptability trial. Participants received each of three products (enema, lubricant-filled applicator, suppository) every 2 weeks in a randomized sequence. CASI and T-ACASI scales assessed product acceptability via Likert responses. Factor analysis was used to identify underlying factors measured by each scale. Random effects models were fit to examine age and gender effects on product acceptability. Three underlying factors were identified: Satisfaction with Product Use, Sexual Pleasure, and Ease of Product Use. For acceptability, the applicator ranked highest; however, differences between product acceptability scores were greatest among females and younger participants. These findings indicate that RM delivery systems impact their acceptability and should be considered early in RM development to enhance potential use.

Fig. 1

AMP Study profile

Fig. 2

Estimated mean product acceptability scores from final model by age, gender, and data collection mode among AMP Study participants with no prior product use experience, who did not report having intercourse (anal and/or vaginal) in the past 2 weeks/since their last telephone interview, and who did not report any anorectal symptoms in the past 2 weeks (N = 104)