Campaign to stop manufacture of nonoxynol-9 condoms and lubricants.

Research has shown that nonoxynol-9 (N-9) can increase the risk of HIV infection if used frequently and with anal sex. (1) The use of N-9 in lubricants and on condoms is no longer recommended, especially for anal sex. Even a low dose of N-9 can cause major short-term disruption and shedding of the cells lining the rectum. Efforts are underway to get manufacturers to agree to discontinue condoms and lubricants containing N-9. The "Call to Discontinue Nonoxynol 9 for Rectal Use" campaign, launched by the Global Campaign for Microbicides, has been endorsed by many organisations and scientists. Not all companies have agreed to date, however, and continuing public health education is needed, including among condom producers in developing countries. (2) New US Food and Drug Administration draft regulations will require manufacturers to add new warning labels to all over-the-counter vaginal contraceptives containing N-9. These will state that N-9 contraceptives do not protect against HIV or other STDs and that frequent use of such products can increase vaginal irritation and possibly increase HIV risk. (3)

(1.) Van Damme L, Ramjee G, Alary M, et al. Effectiveness of COL-1492, a nonoxynol 9 vaginal gel, on HIV-1 transmission in female sex workers, a randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2002;360(9338):971-77.

(2.) N-9 update. Global Campaign for Microbicides, 1 April 2003.

(3.) At: <http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/ 14mar20010800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2003/ 03-902.htm>.