Benzalkonium chloride

Pharmacological properties

Benzalkonium chloride is a cationic surfactant whose contraceptive properties are associated with the ability to destroy sperm membranes. after the contact of benzalkonium chloride with sperm cells, they are immediately immobilized, and then their cell membrane is destroyed and the flagella are separated from the heads. the contraceptive effect of the drug erotex is also realized due to the thickening of cervical mucus and the formation of a film, which reduces the ability of sperm to penetrate the external pharynx of the cervix.

The contraceptive effect is measured by the Pearl index, for benzalkonium chloride in the form of suppositories it is less than 1, that is, provided that all the requirements are correctly applied and all the requirements are met, the frequency of unwanted pregnancy is about 1% per year.

The drug does not affect libido and fertility, has a reversible effect when it is canceled.

Erotex also has an antiseptic and antimicrobial effect and reduces the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, but does not completely exclude it.

Pharmacokinetics The drug is not absorbed by the vaginal mucosa, but is only absorbed on its walls, easily eliminated by douching with clean water or removed with physiological vaginal discharge, acts only locally and does not enter the systemic circulation. The duration of local action of Erotex is 4 hours.

Indications

Local contraception for all women of reproductive age. the drug is used both in monotherapy and in combination with other methods, which enhances their contraceptive effect. the use of erotex is especially advisable in cases where the benefits of local contraception are irrefutable:

in the presence of permanent or temporary contraindications to oral contraception or intrauterine device (after childbirth, during lactation, after termination of pregnancy, during menopause);

if necessary, occasional protection (irregular sex life);

when using oral contraception, if a woman forgot or later took a pill (in this case, Erotex should be additionally used on any day of the cycle);

as an adjunct in barrier contraception (vaginal diaphragm) or the presence of an intrauterine device, especially with the simultaneous use of certain drugs (e.g. NSAIDs).

Application

Before using the drug, erotex, it is necessary to remove the suppository from the protective package and in the supine position, enter it as deep as possible into the vagina at least 5 minutes before sexual intercourse. during this time, the active spermicidal substance is evenly distributed in the vagina. in case of repeated sexual contact, it is necessary to introduce another erotex suppository (one suppository per sexual contact).

When using Erotex, it is necessary to take into account that suppositories have a moderate moisturizing effect.

Children. Erotex should not be used in children.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the drug, vaginitis, ulcers and irritation of the vaginal mucosa and cervix. the impossibility of proper use of vaginal suppositories by persons with mental disorders and people who do not allow any interventions on the genitals, or people who are not able to understand and agree with this type of contraception.

Side effects

In patients with hypersensitivity to benzalkonium chloride, allergic reactions can occur. in rare cases, irritation, tingling, a feeling of warmth at the injection site, contact dermatitis, itching, burning in the partner’s vagina or penis, and pain during urination are possible.in case of unwanted side effects, discontinue use of the drug. systemic side effects not reported.

special instructions

The contraceptive effectiveness of the drug erotex largely depends on careful observance of the rules for its use.

To achieve maximum effect, you should remember these rules and follow them:

the drug must be used before each sexual contact, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle (use of the drug only on “dangerous days” reduces the effectiveness of the method);

in case of repeated sexual intercourse, it is necessary to introduce another Eroteks suppository (one suppository per sexual intercourse);

for genital hygiene, it is forbidden to use soap or other soap-based products for 2 hours before and 2 hours after sexual intercourse, since even their minor residues destroy the active substance of Erotex. Use only clean water;

do not douche the vagina for 2 hours after intercourse.

You can not use Eroteks without the permission of a doctor in identifying any diseases of the vagina.

Use during pregnancy or lactation. The drug is a contraceptive; during pregnancy, it should not be used. When pregnancy occurs against contraception of benzalkonium chloride, no effect on the course of pregnancy is detected.

Benzalkonium does not pass into breast milk, so Erotex can be used during lactation.

The ability to influence the reaction rate when driving vehicles or working with other mechanisms. Does not affect.

Interactions

During the use of erotex, it is not recommended to use other vaginal forms of drugs to prevent their possible interaction and reduce the contraceptive effect.

Soap and other hygiene products based on soap inactivate benzalkonium chloride, which leads to the loss of its contraceptive effect.

Chemically incompatible with iodine preparations.

Overdose

Cases of overdose are not registered.

Storage conditions

At a temperature of 2-15 ° C.