Developing a long-lasting injectable system for HIV prevention and contraception
Official title: Project Horizon: Hydrogel Injectable Depot System for Next-Generation Long-Acting HIV Prevention and Contraception
Funded at Old Dominion University · NIH-11178981 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new gel that can be injected to provide two important medications—one to help prevent HIV and another for birth control—over a long time, and they want to make sure it’s safe and effective while also listening to what potential users think about it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Old Dominion University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norfolk, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2019 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,986,389 |
| NIH project number | 6R33AI142685-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178981 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for HIV and those seeking effective contraceptive options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for HIV or do not require contraception may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a new injectable hydrogel system that can deliver two important medications—dolutegravir for HIV prevention and levonorgestrel for contraception—simultaneously over an extended period. The project will first test different formulations in laboratory settings and animal models to ensure safety and effectiveness. Additionally, researchers will engage with potential users to understand their preferences for this new product, ensuring it meets the needs of those at risk for HIV and unintended pregnancies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a convenient and effective method for preventing both HIV and unintended pregnancies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing long-acting injectable systems for HIV prevention, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, Meredith R — Old Dominion University
- Study coordinator: Clark, Meredith R
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.