Comparative trial between two soft jelly capsules containing nonoxynol as spermicidal contraceptives

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Gynecology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Nonoxynol-9 is a spermicide used in vaginal capsules.
• Capsule rupture time is critical for drug release and effectiveness.
• Vaginal conditions may influence capsule performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the rupture time of treated and non-treated Nonoxynol-9 soft jelly capsules.
• To assess the impact of vaginal infections and other factors on capsule rupture.
• To evaluate the vaginal distribution and weight loss of the capsules.

Main Methods:

• 96 women were divided into four groups based on vaginal infection status.
• Treated and non-treated capsules containing Nonoxynol-9 were inserted vaginally.
• Capsule weight, rupture time, vaginal pH, and compound distribution were measured.

Main Results:

• Capsules in infected women (Groups I, III, IV) ruptured within 2.5 minutes.
• Capsules in non-infected women (Group II) ruptured after 3 minutes.
• Alkaline pH, multiparity, and vaginal dryness were associated with non-ruptured capsules.

Conclusions:

• Vaginal infections accelerate Nonoxynol-9 capsule rupture.
• Treated capsules showed greater rupture and weight loss in infected women compared to non-treated.
• Further postcoital tests are needed to confirm effectiveness.