Pharmatex

Pharmatex is available in several pharmaceutical forms, tailored to the individual needs of patients:

• Pharmatex 18.9 mg soft vaginal capsules (ovules) – contain 18.9 mg benzalkonium chloride and come in the form of translucent, light beige capsules, packaged in blister packs (box of 6 or 10 capsules). They are administered intravaginally and have a contraceptive effect for up to 4 hours.
• Pharmatex vaginal cream (72 g) – contains the same active substance, providing immediate contraceptive protection with local spermicidal and antiseptic action.

Pharmatex is indicated for local contraception, especially in the following situations:

• when oral contraception or an intrauterine device is contraindicated 
• immediately after childbirth, during breastfeeding or in premenopause;
• as a temporary or episodic method of contraception, especially when occasional protection is desired;
• as an additional measure when a contraceptive pill has been missed or delayed

Pharmatex may also be recommended for women who want a contraceptive method without systemic hormonal effects, without influencing the menstrual cycle and without risks to lactation.

Pharmatex vaginal capsules are used before each sexual intercourse, regardless of the period of the menstrual cycle.

• Insert one soft capsule deep into the vagina while lying down.
• Wait 10 minutes for complete dissolution and release of the active substance.
• The contraceptive effect is guaranteed for up to 4 hours.
• For each new sexual intercourse, insert a new capsule.
• After intercourse, only external washing with water (without soap) is permitted.

Pharmatex vaginal cream is applied directly into the vagina using the applicator provided in the package, immediately before sexual intercourse, providing contraceptive protection for up to 10 hours.

The use of Pharmatex contraceptive ovules is contraindicated in the following cases:

• hypersensitivity to benzalkonium chloride or any of the excipients;
• severe vaginal lesions, ulcers or irritation;
• concomitant use of soaps, intimate hygiene gels or other vaginal products (antifungal, antibacterial, oestrogenic) that may inactivate the active substance.

Pharmatex has high clinical efficacy, but is inferior to hormonal or mechanical methods. Its efficacy is directly proportional to compliance with the instructions for use.

Since the active substance acts exclusively locally and is not absorbed systemically, the product does not affect lactation and can be used without risk by breastfeeding women.

Pharmatex is generally very well tolerated. Adverse reactions are rare and mild:

• itching, burning or local irritation in one or both partners;
• allergic reactions to the active substance or excipients (frequency unknown).

These reactions are usually transient and disappear after discontinuation of the product.

Pharmatex should not be used concomitantly with other vaginally administered medicines, such as antifungals, antibacterials, antiseptics or oestrogenic products, as these may reduce or negate its contraceptive efficacy.

Soaps and detergents also destroy benzalkonium chloride, so washing the vagina with soap before or after use is not recommended.

No cases of overdose have been reported to date. Repeated or accidental overdose does not cause systemic effects due to its strictly local action.

Pharmatex should be stored at temperatures below 25°C, in its original packaging, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date indicated on the packaging.

• PubMed, Efficacy, safety and acceptability of a benzalkonium chloride-based spermicidal cream in women over 40 years of age who need contraception: a prospective multicentre study
• Springer Nature Link, Benzalkonium chloride — a new vaginal contraceptive
• PubMed, Pharmatex ovules: results of 10 years of research in the field of contraception
• Contraception Journal, Efficacy of a benzalkonium chloride-containing spermicidal suppository