Pharmatex tablets, suppositories and cream: instructions for use

A modern woman has in her arsenal a wide selection of contraceptives, which differ in method of application, mechanism of action and material costs.

The local drug Pharmatex in capsules and tablets is becoming increasingly widespread. The drug has a number of advantages compared to other contraceptives. However, it is not without its drawbacks.

Reviews about the use of Pharmatex are varied. Most women appreciate this drug for its high effectiveness and ease of use. Another part has negative experience with vaginal tablets. The remaining women doubt whether Pharmatex is worth purchasing. Let's try to understand the benefits and rules for using a local contraceptive drug.

Similarities and differences between Pharmatex capsules and tablets

Vaginal contraceptive pills and Farmatex capsules have a similar composition and mechanism of action. However, there is a significant difference between them.

Both pharmacological forms contain benzalkonium chloride, while its mass fraction is different:

• in capsules it is contained in the form of an aqueous 50% solution in an amount of 37.8 mg, which corresponds to its pure amount of 18.9 mg;
• in tablets its content is 20 mg.

Contraceptive vaginal capsules are a soft, translucent oval gelatin form with an emulsion inside. The tablets are available in white with a hole.

Capsules are enclosed in blisters of 6 pieces. One cardboard package contains 1 or 2 blisters.

The tablets are in a polypropylene tube in the amount of 12 pieces, enclosed in a cardboard package.

Pharmatex release form

Pharmatex is a drug for vaginal use, the main active component of which is benzalkonium chloride. Pharmatex is available in the form:

• Cylindrical vaginal tampons soaked in an oily white cream with a lavender scent;
• Homogeneous white 1.2% cream with lavender scent;
• Soft oval vaginal capsules of light yellow color, containing the active substance in the form of a yellowish emulsion;
• Round white vaginal tablets;
• White cylindrical vaginal suppositories with a cone-shaped end.

Pharmacological effects of vaginal drugs

The vaginal contraceptive Pharmatex has the following pharmacological effects:

• spermicidal;
• bactericidal.

The spermicidal effect is achieved by the effect of benzalkonium chloride on sperm motility and viability.

In this case, the sperm membrane is destroyed. Their destruction begins with flagella. As a result, sperm are immobilized. Next, the head, which carries chromosomal information, is destroyed.

After the drug affects the sperm and damages them, the possibility of fertilization is reduced to 0.

The effect of using capsules and tablets occurs no earlier than 10 minutes from the start of administration of the drug into the vagina.

Pharmatex has a bactericidal effect on a number of sexually transmitted infections. Of particular importance among them are:

• gonorrhea pathogens;
• chlamydia;
• Trichomonas;
• herpes type 2;
• staphylococcal flora.

Despite its wide spectrum of action, the drug is not able to protect against:

• mycoplasmosis;
• candidiasis;
• syphilis.

Pharmatex does not affect the vaginal flora, so it cannot be used as a medicine.

Absorption of benzalkonium chloride into the vagina is not observed. If necessary, the drug is removed with running water. Physiologically, it comes out along with vaginal discharge.

pharmachologic effect

The active component of Pharmatex, being a spermicide and an antiseptic at the same time, destroys sperm membranes, providing a contraceptive effect.

The use of Farmatex according to the instructions significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, but does not completely eliminate it. Moreover, its effectiveness largely depends on correct application.

According to the instructions, the active component of Pharmatex is active against many pathogens that can cause a number of diseases that are sexually transmitted. This applies to a greater extent to HIV, Chlamydia spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Staphylococcus aureus, Trichomonas vaginalis and Herpes simplex type 2.

Pharmatex is weakly active against Haemophilus ducreyi, Candida albicans, Gardnerella vaginalis and Treponema pallidum and does not show activity against Mycoplasma spp.

Pharmatex has no effect on the saprophytic vaginal microflora (including the Doderlein bacillus).

The active component of Pharmatex, being absorbed only on the surface of the vaginal walls, is not absorbed by the mucous membrane, and after use is excreted with physiological secretions or can be eliminated by rinsing with water.

Use of Pharmatex tablets and capsules: brief instructions

Instructions for use of the drug Farmatex depend on the form inserted into the vagina.

Contraceptive vaginal pills and capsules are administered as follows:

• the woman lies on her back;
• Pharmatex is inserted into the vagina up to the cervix;
• wait 10 minutes or more before sexual intercourse;
• The effect of the tablet is designed for 3 hours, the effect of the capsule is for 4 hours;
• Each new sexual intercourse is accompanied by repeated injection of the drug into the vagina.

Features of use

Vaginal tablets and capsules have a number of features associated with their use:

1. before introducing the local form of Pharmatex into the vagina, it is forbidden to use soap or other alkaline reagent to wash for 2 hours;
2. After sexual intercourse, it is forbidden to wash yourself with soap for 2 hours.

This is due to the fact that alkali reacts chemically with benzalkonium chloride and neutralizes its effect. As a result, the contraceptive effect of the drug is reduced or stopped.

To care for the genitals, you can use water or a special intimate hygiene gel called Farmatex. It also contains the main active ingredient benzalkonium chloride, which enhances the contraceptive effect.

Vaginal tablets must be moistened with water before use for easier administration and increased spermicidal activity.

"Ginecotex"

This drug also contains benzalkonium chloride as an active substance and is used as a local contraceptive. Gynekotex is produced in the form of vaginal suppositories. Indications, contraindications, side effects are similar to those of Pharmatex tablets.

Ginekotex suppositories should be used no later than 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. The active substance remains active for 4 hours. Just as in the case of other Pharmatex analogues, before repeated sexual intercourse it is necessary to repeat the introduction of a new suppository.

Indications for use of the drug

Instructions for use of Pharmatex contain a number of indications. Among them, a prerequisite is the woman's reproductive age before entering menopause.

Birth control pills and capsules can be used for:

• absolute or relative contraindications to the use of other contraceptives with a greater degree of protection;
• protection from unwanted pregnancy in the postpartum period;
• breastfeeding;
• protection against pregnancy after abortion;
• premenopausal women with irregular menstrual cycles;
• irregular sexual intercourse;
• missing a pill when taking a COC;
• additional protection using an intrauterine contraceptive or vaginal diaphragm.

Features of good stagnation

Pharmatex is an effective method for eliminating the humidity of the mind and the proper vigor of the skin under the skin. This method of contraception does not compromise the effectiveness of such methods of contraception as hormonal contraception, intrauterine device, diaphragm, cervical cup or condom. The effectiveness of spermicides decreases if the stagnation rules are not followed.

The effectiveness of the contraceptive measure must be carefully followed, so it is important to clearly explain to the patient how to self-correct, and ensure that she has understood everything correctly.

Individuals who cannot understand or accept the rules of contraception should not use this contraception.

Wash what traces should be removed when frozen with Pharmatex:

• systematically inject the suppository deep into the skin before skin contact, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle;
• do not vikoristovat nicely for Mitya state organs 2 years before and 2 years after sex, because the water is miles away, it seems to have a meager quantity, the active speech is running rampant. For both partners, it is possible to only wash the genitals with clean water;
• It is necessary to douse with clean water for at least 2 years in order to reduce the risk of absorption of the drug;
• Avoid taking a bath, swimming near a pond, swimming pool, etc., because the contraceptive effect may be weakened;
• take Pharmatex if symptoms of organ damage appear or become more severe;
• If you are undergoing intravaginal treatment, allow Pharmatex to sit until the end of treatment. During this period, you will need to switch to another method of contraception.

This contraceptive product does not protect against infections transmitted by HIV or the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes advanced immunodeficiency syndrome (SIDS).

Suspension during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Clinical and epidemiological studies have not revealed any development associated with episodic stagnation of this condition at early stages of pregnancy.

Even a small amount of the drug can be consumed in mother's milk without any harm. Goduvannya breastfeeding.

This is due to the fluidity of the reaction during treatment with vehicles or other mechanisms.

Whether there was any impact on the construction of the plant by motor transport or working with other mechanisms was not avoided.

Contraindications

Instructions for use of the drug for vaginal contraception Farmatex contain a number of contraindications, including:

Absolute:

• allergic reactions to the components of the drug;
• presence of mental illness;

Relative:

• cervical erosion;
• irritation of the vaginal mucosa;
• colpitis;
• ulcerative lesions of the vagina.

After getting rid of relative contraindications, the use of Pharmatex becomes possible.

Instructions:

Clinical and pharmacological group

23.039 (Vaginal contraceptive with spermicidal effect)

Release form, composition and packaging

◊ Cylindrical vaginal tampons, soaked in white oily cream with the scent of lavender.

Excipients: citric acid, glycol and polyglycol stearate (Tefoz 63), lavender oil, purified water.

* - each polyvinyl formaldehyde swab is soaked in 5 g of cream.

1 PC. — contour cell packaging (2) — cardboard boxes. 1 pc. — contour cell packaging (6) — cardboard boxes.

pharmachologic effect

Vaginal contraceptive. Benzalkonium chloride is both a spermicide and an antiseptic. The active substance destroys sperm membranes. The destruction of sperm occurs in two stages: first, destruction of the flagellum, then rupture of the head, which makes fertilization impossible.

The use of Pharmatex significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, but does not eliminate it completely.

Clinical effectiveness is determined by the adjusted Pearl index, which is less than 1 if the drug is used correctly.

In vitro, the drug is active against many pathogens that cause sexually transmitted diseases, especially Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia spp., Trichomonas vaginalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Herpes simplex type 2, HIV.

The drug is not active against Mycoplasma spp. and is weakly active against Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida albicans, Haemophilus ducreyi and Treponema pallidum.

In vivo, the components of the drug show some activity in the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, but there is no evidence of this.

The drug does not affect the saprophytic vaginal microflora, incl. on Doderlein's stick.

Pharmacokinetics

Benzalkonium chloride is not absorbed by the vaginal mucosa. It is absorbed only on the surface of the vaginal walls and is then excreted with normal physiological secretions or eliminated by simple rinsing with water.

Dosage

Vaginal tablets. Lying on your back, the tablet is inserted deep into the vagina no later than 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. The duration of action of the drug is 3 hours. Be sure to administer a new tablet before each repeated sexual intercourse. 1 tablet is designed for one sexual act.

Vaginal capsules. Lying on your back, the capsule is inserted deep into the vagina no later than 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. The duration of action of the drug is 4 hours. Be sure to administer a new capsule before each repeated sexual intercourse. 1 capsule is designed for one sexual act.

Vaginal suppositories. Lying on your back, the suppository is inserted deep into the vagina no later than 5 minutes before sexual intercourse. The duration of action of the drug is 4 hours. Be sure to introduce a new suppository before each repeated sexual intercourse. 1 suppository is designed for one sexual act.

Before inserting a vaginal tampon, remove it from its protective packaging. Place the middle finger of one hand in the center of the flat surface of the tampon. Spreading the lips of the vulva with the other hand, insert the tampon deep into the vagina, up to contact with the cervix. The protective effect occurs immediately and lasts 24 hours. During this period, there is no need to change the tampon, even if several sexual acts follow one another. You can remove the tampon 2 hours after the last sexual intercourse. In any case, the tampon should be removed 24 hours after insertion into the vagina. If difficulties arise with removing the tampon, you need to squat down (thereby reducing the depth of the vagina) and pull out the tampon, holding it between your index and middle fingers.

Before administering the vaginal cream, you should install a dosing device at the end of the tube. Fill it completely (up to the ring-shaped mark or until the piston stops) so that no air bubbles form. Disconnect the dosing device from the tube. Before sexual intercourse, insert the cream deep into the vagina using a dosing device, slowly pressing the plunger. Remove the dosing device. It is easier to administer while lying down. The protective effect begins immediately and lasts for at least 10 hours. Be sure to administer a new portion of the cream before each repeated sexual intercourse.

1 serving of cream is designed for one sexual act.

The frequency of use of the drug is limited by individual tolerance of the active substance and the frequency of sexual intercourse.

It is possible to use Farmatex in conjunction with a vaginal diaphragm or IUD.

Overdose

Due to low systemic absorption, overdose is unlikely.

Currently, symptoms of overdose are not described.

Drug interactions

Concomitant use with medications administered vaginally is not recommended. Any drug introduced into the vagina can inactivate the local spermicidal effect of Pharmatex.

Pharmatex is destroyed by soap. You should not irrigate the vagina before and after sexual intercourse, because soap, even traces of it, destroys the active substance.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

No harmful effects associated with the use of the drug during pregnancy were found. The examination of the teratogenic properties of the final product gave negative results, as well as the examination of the teratogenic properties of the active substance itself. In addition, studies have shown that benzalkonium chloride is not absorbed into the blood.

Since the absence of penetration of the active substance into the blood and breast milk has been proven, the use of this spermicide during breastfeeding does not pose any danger.

Side effects

Allergic reactions: burning, itching, contact dermatitis (if these occur, you should stop using Farmatex).

Storage conditions and periods

List B. The drug should be stored out of the reach of children at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. The shelf life for vaginal capsules and vaginal tablets is 2 years, for vaginal suppositories, vaginal cream and vaginal tampons – 3 years.

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies

The drug is approved for use as a means of OTC.

Indications

Local contraception for any woman of reproductive age who has no contraindications, as well as in the following cases:

— the presence of temporary or absolute contraindications to the use of oral contraceptives or an intrauterine device;

- in the period after childbirth and during breastfeeding;

- after termination of pregnancy;

- in the period preceding menopause;

- if necessary, occasional contraception from pregnancy;

- with constant use of oral contraceptives in case of missing or late taking a pill.

As additional local contraception when using a vaginal diaphragm or intrauterine device (especially if certain medications such as NSAIDs are taken at the same time).

Contraindications

- the impossibility of correct use of Pharmatex in persons with mental disorders or persons who do not allow any intervention on the genital organs and who prevent the use of contraception;

- any person unable to understand or agree with this type of contraception;

- colpitis;

- ulceration and irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and uterus;

- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

special instructions

The effectiveness of contraception is associated solely with strict adherence to the rules of its use:

- apply systematically before each sexual intercourse;

- insert the capsule (tablet, suppository, tampon, cream) so that the selected dosage form penetrates as deeply as possible into the vagina, preferably in a lying position;

- wait for the capsule or tablet to completely dissolve in the vagina for at least 10 minutes, for the suppository - for at least 5 minutes, so that the active substance is completely released;

- be sure to introduce a new capsule (tablet, dose of cream, suppository) before each repeated sexual intercourse;

- it is prohibited to use soap for toileting the genitals 2 hours before sexual intercourse and for 2 hours after sexual intercourse, because soap, even in residual quantities, destroys the active ingredient of Farmatex;

- immediately after sexual intercourse, only external toilet of the genital organs is possible only with clean water or with the help of a foaming product called Pharmatex, which does not contain soap, which contains benzalkonium chloride. Before performing vaginal irrigation, you should wait 2 hours after sexual intercourse;

- with Pharmatex inserted into the vagina, you should not take baths, swim in the sea, pool or reservoirs due to the risk of reducing the subsequent contraceptive effect;

— since Pharmatex contains benzalkonium chloride, it is necessary to interrupt its use if any vaginal diseases occur or their exacerbation;

- if there is a need to treat vaginal diseases and/or prescribe any other medication vaginally, you must wait until the end of treatment before resuming (starting) contraception with Pharmatex.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Pharmatex is a contraceptive drug, so its use during pregnancy is prohibited.

If conception occurs while using Farmatex tablets or capsules, the drug has no effect on the fetus. Continuing pregnancy in this case is not contraindicated.

The drug is a local contraceptive that does not pass into the blood or breast milk. Lactating women can use Pharmatex as an effective contraceptive.

Advantages and disadvantages

The need to use a new dose of the drug before each sexual intercourse causes a lot of inconvenience, as well as psychological discomfort. Many girls refuse Pharmatex because they experience psychological discomfort and cannot completely relax during intimacy, worrying that the tablet is not injected deeply enough, or that the allotted time is not enough for the drug to take effect.

In addition, the ladies’ disadvantages include:

• 
  the need to observe safety measures two hours before intimacy, a ban on the use of soap;

• when using tablets, a feeling of dryness may occur, especially if there are problems with natural hydration (lubrication);
• limited ability to visit the pool or take a bath; the impossibility of using the drug while on vacation at sea, where a lot of time is spent swimming in the water;
• lack of 100% protection against pregnancy;
• If pregnancy does occur and the woman does not know about it, continuing to use the product is very risky, since it negatively affects the development of the fetus.

Most often, doctors recommend terminating a pregnancy during which a woman used Pharmatex, since there is a high probability that a child will be born with serious developmental disabilities.

Advantages of Pharmatex:

• does not affect hormonal levels;
• does not disturb the vaginal microflora;
• protects against infections, has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect;
• can be used after childbirth, during breastfeeding, after termination of pregnancy, before menopause.

Adverse reactions

Instructions for use of Pharmatex indicate the possibility of local side effects. In women, this can manifest itself as:

• itching in the vagina;
• burning sensations;
• the appearance of a rash;
• increased frequency or pain when urinating.

Men may experience the same allergic symptoms on the penis.

In order to get rid of side effects, the drug must be washed off with plenty of running water.

Which is better to choose?

The choice of the form of the contraceptive drug Pharmatex depends on the woman’s age, physiological characteristics of the vagina and a history of childbirth.

Vaginal tablets are best chosen by young women. This is due to the sufficient release of vaginal lubrication during sexual arousal. Administration of the tablet is easy.

In this case, uniform dissolution and distribution of benzalkonium chloride is observed, which ensures maximum contraceptive effectiveness, which occurs 10 to 15 minutes from the moment of administration.

Vaginal capsules are a local form of contraceptives with a medium degree of moisture. Their use is justified in women of various categories: both with normal vaginal lubrication and with its moderate deficiency.

The jelly-like capsule dissolves and melts more slowly than suppositories, but faster than tablets. Contraceptive activity occurs 8 to 10 minutes after administration.

Reviews about Pharmatex

Vaginal contraceptive pills and capsules are popular among a wide range of women. Positive reviews about Pharmatex are associated with:

• simplicity and ease of administration;
• rapid onset of contraceptive effect;
• the ability to choose the form of the drug for insertion into the vagina;
• the possibility of protection from pregnancy after childbirth and during lactation.

Negative reviews are associated with the low risk of conception compared to other contraceptives, as well as the need for repeated injections during subsequent sexual intercourse.

Reviews from doctors prove that Pharmatex, when used correctly, has high contraceptive effectiveness and can be used in women of any age until they reach menopause.

Interactions with other medicinal drugs and other types of interactions

Combinations that are unique:

+ medical drugs with vaginal administration:

Be it intravaginal bathing, it is likely that it inactivates the spermatocidal action of the oral contraceptive;

+ mileage:

This spermicide operates in a number of ways - it is necessary to avoid any minor factors, so that the stench, supposedly in minimal quantities, will result in active speech.

A study of the performance between vaginal suppositories and latex, conducted with different brands, did not reveal any significant changes in the physical characteristics of the tested condoms.