First Anti-Viral Proven to Reduce Transmission of a Sexually Transmitted Disease

Results of pivotal study with VALTREX published in New England Journal of Medicine

TORONTO, Jan. 1 2004/CNW/ - GlaxoSmithKline today announced the publication of results from a clinical trial evaluating VALTREX(R) (valacyclovir hydrochloride), an oral anti-viral, in the reduction of transmission of genital herpes, in the January 1, 2004 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine. VALTREX significantly reduced the risk of transmitting herpes infection to a heterosexual partner as compared to placebo when used along with safer sex practices.

This is the first demonstration that an anti-viral medication can reduce the transmission of a sexually transmitted chronic viral infection. As genital herpes is widespread in nearly all parts of the world, these results offer an additional approach for both patients and health care providers for what is the major concern of most persons with genital herpes: reducing the risk of transmitting their infection to their sexual partner.

The study showed that once-daily suppressive therapy with VALTREX 500 mg caplets, along with safer sex practices, reduced the risk of transmission of symptomatic genital herpes by 75 per cent versus placebo. In addition, suppressive therapy with VALTREX reduced the risk of overall acquisition of the virus (with or without symptoms, confirmed by a lab test) by 48 per cent versus placebo. In addition, VALTREX significantly reduced the number of recurrences in the infected partner versus placebo, consistent with previous studies.

The effect of VALTREX on transmission of genital herpes has not been established in immunocompromised individuals or same-sex couples.

Health Canada has not yet approved VALTREX for reducing the risk of transmission of genital herpes.