• Developing microbicides

Developing microbicides

This Alliance for microbicides briefing note summarises key findings from a review of the issues related to development of markets for public health products, including microbicides. The document finds that introduction strategies need to be considered concurrently with product development and clinical trails. It also notes the need for more research to identify the best characteristics and means of delivery for widespread acceptance of microbicides. Other findings include: the importance of initial introduction by public sector distribution channels for opening the market and reaching the poor and vulnerable; the need for different distribution strategies for different countries and settings; and the critical role of promotion in the introduction of products, as well as developing and sustaining demand.

The authors make two key recommendations. Firstly, they recommend tailoring product development to potential markets, arguing that consideration of potential markets should feed into the product development process and delivery channels. They also stress the need for research concerning the preference and use of different delivery channels. Secondly, the authors recommend consideration of a range of distribution methods. They argue that initial implementations should focus on public sector methods of distribution, but that strategies which emphasise a mix of methods and messages are likely to have more success. [adapted from author]

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