Researchers say patch is effective in distributing HIV medication

While all sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can come with a variety of dangerous side effects, many people report that HIV is the infection they fear the most. Luckily, practicing safer sex can reduce an individual's risk of contracting this illness, and there are advancements being made in treatments for the condition. 

For example, research presented at the 2011 American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) Annual Meeting reports that a transdermal patch has been effective in delivering HIV medication.

"Taking medicines regularly reduces symptoms in HIV patients and extends lives. The transdermal patch offers an easier option for patients to comply with their medication regimes as compared to current treatments," said researcher Anthony Ham, Ph.D.

HIV patients have to take numerous pills daily to control their condition, so scientists hope that this new delivery method will help reduce this burden for individuals with the infection. The patch may also be more cost-effective to ship than pills or needles, which could benefit people in all countries dealing will this disease.