The nonoxynol content in condoms is insufficient to inhibit the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Trap, R.; Trap, B.; Petersen, C.S.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 152(46): 3464-3466
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-5782 PMID: 2173190 Document Number: 359289
The brands of condom which are marketed in Denmark were examined for nonoxynol content with the object of assessing whether such content is sufficient to prevent HIV spread and in relation to defects in its potential effectiveness. Using the methods of methanol/water extraction and subsequent high performance liquid chromatography (with the standard nonoxynol content being 40 mg [100%] per condom), 1 brand of condom contained 65%, 2 contained 50-55%, and 4 between 25-33%. The nonoxynol content was found to be evenly distributed between the outer and inner surfaces of the condom. With a theoretical distribution volume of 6 ml (tearing during vaginal coitus), it was found that 3 brands of condom did not achieve the HIV-inhibiting nonoxynol concentration of 0.05%. This was ascertained by measuring the quantity of nonoxynol on the distal 5 cm of the condoms. During anal sex, the distribution volume is greater which results in lower nonoxynol concentrations and thus increased risk for HIV infection. It is concluded that nonoxynol content in the condoms marketed in Denmark should be increased in order to inactivate HIV in the event of condom failure. (author's modified)