Topical polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid complex in the treatment of recurrent genital herpes

Abstract

Polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid complexed with poly-l-lysine and carboxymethylcellulose [poly(ICLC)] is a potent interferon inducer when given parenterally to humans. Topical application in animal models has shown beneficial antiviral and clinical effects. In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of topical poly(ICLC) in recurrent genital herpes simplex virus infection, five clinical and two virological parameters were followed. Fifty-seven men and women, with 78 recurrences of genital herpes, were stratified by sex. No clinical or antiviral differences between poly(ICLC) and placebo groups in either stratum were found. Further analysis of male subgroups by age and size of lesions showed no changes in the rapidity of healing or viral shedding.