First-in-line 3D-printed intravaginal ring for nonhormonal contraception

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Unintended pregnancies necessitate effective and acceptable contraceptive methods.
• Long-acting contraceptives improve adherence and reliability.
• Hormonal contraceptives are prevalent, but nonhormonal options like the copper intrauterine device (IUD) are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel 3D-printed intravaginal ring (IVR) for co-delivery of nonhormonal contraceptive agents.
• To achieve tunable release rates of lactic acid (LA) and glycerol monolaurate (GML) for extended contraception.
• To investigate drug interactions and release mechanisms within the IVR matrix.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a next-generation 3D-printed IVR.
• Incorporation and co-delivery of lactic acid (LA) and glycerol monolaurate (GML).
• In vitro characterization of drug release profiles through alterations in ring properties and drug loading.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated tunable in vitro release rates of LA and GML.
• Achieved sustained release of both agents over 30 days or longer.
• Explored drug-within-matrix interactions and elucidated loading/release mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• The 3D-printed IVR platform offers a flexible approach for developing novel nonhormonal contraceptive methods.
• Sustained co-delivery of LA and GML is feasible, providing a promising long-acting contraceptive option.
• Further research into IVR drug delivery mechanisms can optimize contraceptive efficacy and patient compliance.