Qualitative exploration of intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence acceptability of semisoft vaginal suppositories.

Background: Vaginal microbicides are a promising means to prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, by empowering women to initiate use prophylactically when they perceive themselves to be at risk. However, in clinical trials, microbicides have shown mixed results, with the consistent finding that effectiveness varies substantially as a function of user adherence.

Methods: Based on the assumption that adherence is driven, at least in part, by product properties that influence acceptability, we used softgel technology to develop vaginal drug delivery systems in the intermediate texture space between solids and liquids to overcome potential shortcomings of current dosage forms.

Histological and radiographic evaluation of polymethylmethacrylate with two different concentrations of barium sulfate in a sheep vertebroplasty model.

Percutaneous vertebral augmentation with PMMA has been widely performed and usually provides good pain relief and stabilization of fractured vertebrae. Adequate visualization of PMMA during injection is desirable to minimize cement extravasation, so contrast agents such as barium sulfate are commonly added to the PMMA. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences of histology and radiographic visualization when different concentrations of barium sulfate are mixed with PMMA.