Progress in the development of the Progestasert TM 65 progesterone therapeutic system for contraception
Place, V.A.; Pharriss, B.B.
Journal of Reproductive Medicine 13(2): 66-68
1974
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-7758 PMID: 4844516 Document Number: 492976
The primary objective in the design of the Progestasert 65 system, a progesterone uterine therapeutic system, has been to influence the intrauterine environment and produce fertility control by means of local steroid action. It has an average release rate of 65 mcg progesterone/day to the uterine lumen for a period of 400 days. Although the system was developed as a method of local steroid contraception rather than as an intrauterine device (IUD), information gained from experience with IUDs guided certain aspects of the design specifications; e.g., the T configuration was selected and modified for easier insertion. The progesterone core composition is contained within the verticle system of the T maintaining the flexibility and softness of this portion. The inserter is a smooth cylindrical unit, precurved and malleable so the angle can be changed if necessary. This inserter design has provided over 3000 insertions with no perforations. Clinical data come from 32 clinics. It is concluded that this development is a highly efficacious local hormonal system of contraception.