HIV docs win quack HIV gel case

HIV docs win quack HIV gel case
17th March 2017 | lightspeed

By Lauren Jankelowitz, CEO SA HIV Clinicians Society

The South Gauteng High Court this week ruled in favour of the SA HIV Clinicians Society in its legal battle with a doctor who promoted a product marketed as Dr Hugh’s Dermo Blue Pre-sex Protection Gel, which claimed to prevent HIV infection.

The Society previously informed clinicians and patients that the gel was untested and not proven to work, and explained the steps it had taken to ensure that the product was withdrawn from the market. This ultimately led to the doctor suing the Society for defamation.

The Society has an evidence-based approach to all its work and this is what was used when we considered the product in question. Part of the work of the Southern African HIV Clinicians Society includes constant efforts to debunk non-proven HIV “cures” and emphasise the importance of offering patients therapies that have been tested according to rigorous standards.

We are relieved and satisfied with the outcome. Part of the Society’s mandate is to provide doctors with the evidence that they need to give patients the best possible quality of care. Part of safeguarding patients is preventing the sale and use of untested products.

Such products, whether they are marketed as HIV cures or ways of preventing HIV infection, could encourage people to feel safe under false pretenses and thus put them at risk, and even cause harmful side effects. The Society reiterates the importance of taking HIV medication or using HIV prevention methods that have been thoroughly evaluated according to the highest scientific standards. This is the only way to ensure that those who seek medical care are protected.

“People who feel that they are at risk or fear for their health can be very vulnerable and thus fall prey to those selling quick-fixes or untested remedies. The Society plays a crucial role in ensuring that these patients aren’t taken advantage of and receive the best care possible,” says Society board member Professor Yunus Moosa.

Society President Dr Francesca Conradie agrees: “The Society aims to advance evidence-based interventions, whether for prevention or treatment. We will continue to work as advocates for those affected by HIV. This ruling is fantastic news for us.”