Spermicides examined in microbicide research
Contraceptive technology update 20(4): 40-41
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0274-726X PMID: 12295064 Document Number: 281749
Current research efforts are addressing the potential use of nonoxynol-9 and other spermicides as an effective female-controlled contraceptive method. In the laboratory, nonoxynol-9 is lethal to organisms that cause gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, and HIV, but findings of human studies have been inconsistent. Carrageenan, a compound derived from red seaweed, has been combined with nonoxynol-9 in an effort to develop a spermicide that will protect against HIV and pregnancy. A novel gel formulation that contains low amounts of octoxynol-9 and benzalkonium chloride is scheduled to enter a Phase III trial. The first part of the trial will determine the product's effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and halting the transmission of chlamydia and gonorrhea; the second will focus on HIV. Another Phase III clinical trial is testing a bioadhesive contraceptive gel that contains nonoxynol-9. Also under study is a vaginal sponge that contains low levels of nonoxynol-9 and benzalkonium chloride. Finally, researchers are evaluating the potential for precoating diaphragms and cervical caps with a spermicide.