Spermicides are a fairly wide group of chemical compounds that have the ability to destroy sperm. During the last half of the 20th century, one of the most common components of spermicides used in practice and on the market was nonoxynol. These are vaginal gels, creams, foam products, suppositories, sponges. Nonoxynol can be used as part of a contraceptive as a single contraceptive agent, or in combination with mechanical means of contraception (condoms, vaginal diaphragms). And although drugs containing nonoxynol were primarily proposed and used to protect against unwanted pregnancy, it has long been assumed that nonoxynol also reduces the risk of infection with urogenital infections, including human papillomavirus infection.
Currently, the number of women of reproductive age using spermicides, including those containing nonoxynol, as a method of contraception is quite significant and varies depending on the region - from less than 1% in Asian countries to almost 17% in some Latin American countries.
special instructions
If any adverse reactions occur, it is recommended to stop using the drug.
It is recommended to consult a doctor before using suppositories.
The product can be combined with a condom.
If the candle has melted (the expiration date and long-term storage conditions have not been violated), it can be placed in the refrigerator to return to its original shape.
It is recommended to use the product as little as possible due to the increased risk of side effects with frequent use.
Contraceptive effectiveness:
- When using only nonoxynol, contraceptive effectiveness is low.
- Contraceptive effectiveness is higher with the simultaneous use of nonoxynol and mechanical barrier methods (condom, diaphragm).
- Currently, there is no data available on the effect of the spermicide release form (cream, gel, etc.) or the dosage of nonoxynol on the contraceptive effect.
- There is also no evidence that condoms containing nonoxynol are more effective than other condoms.
Analogs
Matches by level 4 ATX code: Patentex Oval N
Erotex
Septefril
Benatex
NuvaRing
Pharmatex
and Sterilin suppositories also contain nonoxynol .
Indications for use
According to the instructions for Nonoxynol, this drug is intended for local contraception. In particular, it is used for:
- The need for occasional protection from unwanted pregnancy (including for women with irregular sex life);
- Irregular menstruation;
- The need to take a break from taking hormonal oral contraceptives;
- A woman’s desire to use contraception independently of her partner;
- Using hormonal oral contraceptives simultaneously with medications that reduce their effectiveness;
- The presence of any contraindications to the use of oral contraceptives or intrauterine contraceptives.
Nonoxynol has bactericidal activity against chlamydia and gonococci, and reduces the likelihood of developing sexually transmitted diseases such as vaginal chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Reviews of Nonoxynol
Reviews from doctors about Nonoxynol are mostly good. However, experts emphasize that it is advisable to additionally use barrier methods of contraception . Since the drug is not a reliable way to protect against STDs and viruses , and with frequent use it can lead to damage to the mucous membrane, it should not be used during anal sex.
This tool is actively discussed on various forums. Reviews of Nonoxynol contraceptive suppositories from women who have used them for a long time:
“The impressions from the application are positive, I like the low price. It’s a pity that after a year of use I had to switch to COCs due to developing vaginitis”;
“The drug dissolves well and does not form foam. Can be used during breastfeeding , provides additional lubrication. job of preventing pregnancy .”
For some women, the drug simply did not suit them or caused a feeling of discomfort and burning in their sexual partners.
Release form and composition
Nonoxynol is produced in the form of white or colorless torpedo-shaped suppositories for intravaginal use.
Each candle contains:
- 120 mg of nonoxynol, which is a nonionic surfactant;
- Excipients: polyethylene glycol PEG-4000, lactic acid, macrogol 1000.
Suppositories are sold in 5 pcs. in a blister pack, 2 pcs. in each cardboard box.
Contraindications
The use of Nonoxynol, according to the instructions, is contraindicated in:
- Hypersensitivity to its components;
- Inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries (salpingoophoritis);
- Erosive lesions of the cervix;
- Inflammation of the vaginal mucosa caused by the activity of pathogenic microflora (colpitis, vaginitis);
- Abnormalities in the structure of the vagina that make it difficult or impossible to use intravaginal contraceptive drugs.
Side effects
According to numerous reviews from women, in most cases the drug is well tolerated and does not cause any side effects.
In some cases, in the presence of individual hypersensitivity to the active substance, the use of Nonoxynol may be accompanied by such undesirable reactions as:
- Vaginal itching;
- Irritation of the mucous membrane;
- Burning of the vagina, in rare cases – burning of the partner’s penis.
As a rule, these reactions go away on their own and do not require any special treatment. However, if itching occurs after administration of the suppository, you should refrain from further use of the drug. In this case, you should consult a doctor - he will select a local contraceptive with a similar mechanism of action, but with a different active ingredient.
No cases of overdose with Nonoxynol have been reported in medical practice. The risk of its development is assessed as minimal.
Overdose
There have been no reported cases of overdose with the use of the drug. The likelihood of accidental or intentional overdose is quite low. However, women write that with frequent and prolonged use of this contraceptive drug, adverse reactions of the body may occur or intensify.
This is confirmed by the instructions and reviews. The price of Nonoxynol is listed below.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic features
The drug is a non-hormonal contraceptive. Its active substance is nonoxynol, that is, a surfactant nonionic compound. By reducing sperm motility and fragmentation, the spermicidal effect of the drug is created. The active substance has the ability to destroy the sperm acrosome membrane, which makes it impossible for it to dissolve the egg membrane.
"Nonoxynol" has a bactericidal effect against gonococci and chlamydia. Judging by laboratory studies, the active substance actively fights HIV infection, but there is no clinical data on reducing the risk of infection when using suppositories.
The lactic acid in the composition has a positive effect on the vaginal mucosa and helps the development of normal microflora.
Based on laboratory data, one can judge the antifungal effect of the drug. Reviews about "Nonoxynol" are of interest to many.
When using suppositories, the concentration of the main active ingredient in the vagina ranges from 1 to 1.7%, and this is quite sufficient for the pronounced spermicidal activity of the drug. This effect appears after the candle dissolves. On average, the spermicidal effect occurs ten minutes after using the suppository and lasts up to two hours. This medicine does not form foam-like masses.
There is no information on pharmacokinetics. According to reviews, the instructions for using Nonoxynol are very detailed.
Contraceptive "Nonoxynol" (Nonoxinol Pellicles)
Female contraceptive vaginal films Nonoxinol Pellicles are a thin film that is inserted into the vagina immediately before sexual intercourse.
Description of the drug: If you are tired of birth control pills, condoms, abortions, then this is the remedy for you. The films reliably protect against unwanted pregnancy and partly against sexually transmitted infections.
Nonoxynol is a reliable method of contraception and protection against sexually transmitted diseases. For one sexual act, a single use of the drug is sufficient. The drug contains spermicides that inactivate sperm in the vagina. When using the drug, the cervix closes tightly, as a result of which no sperm can avoid contact with the active ingredient and penetrate inside. The drug also contains active substances that have a wide spectrum of action against infections, viruses and sexually transmitted microorganisms.
Contraindications: Sensitivity to the components of the drug, cervical erosion, salpingoophoritis, colpitis, vaginitis, malignant tumors of the genital organs. If you are breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor.
Interaction with other drugs: Due to a possible decrease in spermicidal activity, Nonoxynol is not recommended for use with other drugs intended for intravaginal administration.
Side effects: Negative effects from the use of films are rarely observed. Sometimes there may be itching or burning in the vagina. All unpleasant sensations are reversible and disappear within a short time.
Directions for use: Open the package, remove the film package. Carefully separate one film from the protective sheets, roll it into a ball, then insert it deep into the vagina 10-15 minutes before sexual intercourse and wait until it is completely dissolved. If you have repeated sexual intercourse, you should use a new film. It is not recommended to douche the vagina within 6-8 hours after inserting the film to avoid loss of the contraceptive effect. It is permissible to superficially wash the vagina with clean water without soap. The film can be used in combination with a condom.
The active ingredient is nonoxynol, which reduces motility, fragments and causes death of sperm.
ADVANTAGES of the drug Nonoxinol (Nonoxinol Pellicles):
- Nonoxynol provides a very high level of contraceptive protection.
- Nonoxynol does not contain hormonal drugs and does not have any effect on hormonal balance.
- Nonoxynol is well tolerated and rarely causes side effects.
- Nonoxynol can be used by almost any woman, at any age, including while breastfeeding, after termination of pregnancy, when skipping a dose of hormonal contraceptives, or when hormonal and intrauterine contraception is not possible.
- Nonoxynol is distinguished by its small size and convenient shape. Suppositories are easily inserted into the vagina, their presence is practically not felt.
- Nonoxynol does not form foam and can thus be used unnoticed by men.
- Nonoxynol is odorless.
Release form: Vaginal suppositories containing nonoxynol-9 120 mg of lactic acid - 12 mg. Each package contains 10 suppositories: 5 suppositories in a blister pack. 2 packages in a cardboard box with instructions for medical use.
Composition: Active ingredient: Nonoxynol-9 - 120 mg Excipients: lactic acid 12 mg polyethylene oxide suppository base (4000/1000) sufficient amount up to 1200 mg.
Storage conditions: In the original packaging at a temperature not exceeding 25°C, out of the reach of children.
Shelf life: 3 years. Do not use the drug after the expiration date indicated on the package.
Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies: Without a prescription.
Registration number: P No. 014273/01-2002 date 07.23.2008. Trade name: Nonoxynol. International nonproprietary name: Nonoxynol. Chemical rational name: Mono(para-nok\nylphenyl) ether of polyethylene glycol.
