Population Council Research that makes a difference

Abstract

Progestin-only contraceptive rings (HTML) 
Brache,Vivian; Alvarez-Sanchez,Francisco; Faundes,Anibal; Jackanicz,Theodore M.; Mishell,Daniel R.,Jr.; Lahteenmaki,Pekka
Steroids 65(10-11): 687-691
Publication date: 2000

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Several progestin-only long acting contraceptives are currently available in the form of implants or injectables. Vaginal rings are another contraceptive option in the final stages of development. These steroid-containing polymer rings are placed in the vagina, providing relatively constant drug release, thus allowing for lower effective doses. Vaginal rings have the advantage of being user-controlled and non-provider dependent, and their use is non-coital related. The first clinical study with medroxyprogesterone acetate vaginal rings was published in 1970. Since then numerous clinical trials testing different steroids and doses have followed. A large Phase III multicenter clinical trial with a levonorgestrel ring, releasing 20 µg/day, was coordinated and sponsored by WHO. The cumulative one-year pregnancy rate was 4.5%. The principal reasons for discontinuation were menstrual disturbances (17.2%), followed by frequent expulsion of the ring (7.1%), and vaginal symptoms (6.0%). The finding of erythematous lesions in the vagina in some women has led to the development of a more flexible device. Collaboration with industry should facilitate the manufacture of a redesigned levonorgestrel ring with a higher release rate. The Population Council is also developing a vaginal ring containing Nestorone® for 6 months of continuous use. Ovulation inhibition was achieved in over 97% of the segments studied, with rings releasing either 50, 75, or 100 µg/day. No pregnancies occurred in women using the low-dose ring, while one pregnancy each occurred in the intermediate- and high-dose ring groups for a 6-month cumulative pregnancy rate of 0.0, 1.9, and 2.1%. Bleeding irregularities were common. Nestorone is orally inactive; therefore this ring is also excellent for use in lactating women.

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