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Updated: Jan 29, 2026
05:11
Inkjet-printed Polyvinyl Alcohol Multilayers
Published on: May 11, 2017
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Biocompatible polyvinyl alcohol and RISUG® blend polymeric films with spermicidal potential
Bhuvaneshwaran Subramanian1,2, Tarun Agarwal3, Sanjoy Kumar Ghorai4
1School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur 721302, India.
Biomedical Materials (Bristol, England)
|February 7, 2019
Summary
This study developed new non-hormonal vaginal contraceptive films using RISUG® and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). These biodegradable films are tissue-compatible, non-toxic, and retain spermicidal properties for effective female contraception.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Biomaterials Science
- Contraceptive Technology
Background:
- Current vaginal contraceptives often use detergent molecules that disrupt the cervicovaginal membrane.
- There is a need for tissue-compatible female contraceptive agents to meet demands in reproductive healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize novel non-hormonal vaginal contraceptive films based on RISUG® and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH).
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of these biodegradable intra-vaginal contraceptive films.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of biodegradable intra-vaginal contraceptive films by blending RISUG® with PVOH.
- Characterization of films for thermal, physicochemical, and biological properties.
- In vitro and in vivo toxicological assessments in a rat model.
Main Results:
- RISUG® and PVOH were miscible, showing intermolecular interactions.
- Physicochemical, thermal, and rheological properties varied with RISUG® concentration.
- Formulations exhibited no significant in vitro toxicity and retained RISUG®'s spermicidal potential.
- In vivo studies confirmed biocompatibility with no significant organ, hematological, or biochemical toxicity.
Conclusions:
- PVOH:RISUG® blend films demonstrate potential as a safe and effective vaginal contraceptive.
- These biodegradable films offer a tissue-compatible alternative to existing vaginal contraceptives.
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