Contraceptive Technology Update – May 1, 2006
May 1, 2006
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Shortening the pill-free interval: New contraceptives take next step
Do you remember Enovid, the first oral contraceptive (OC)? Introduced in 1960 by GD Searle in Skokie, IL, the pill was formulated for 21 days of active hormones, followed by seven hormone-free days. During the pill-free interval, the superficial portion of the endometrium was sloughed, producing a withdrawal bleeding episode that simulated menstruation. -
States make push to widen access to EC
While the decision to make emergency contraception (EC) available over the counter remains in a holding pattern at the Food and Drug Administration, advocates are moving on the state level to allow pharmacists to dispense EC without a physicians prescription under certain conditions. -
‘Quick Start’ approach eyed for DMPA and patch
Current package labeling for the contraceptive injection depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (Depo-Provera, Pfizer, New York City) calls for the method to be initiated within the first five days of a womans menstrual period. -
Keep spotlight on LGV: New cases reported
The next patient at your STD (sexually transmitted diseases) clinic is a young man with a mucoid/purulent anal discharge and a lymph node enlargement in the groin area. -
Spray-on contraceptive moves to next step
Scientists are preparing to take the next step in the search for a spray-on contraceptive, with a Phase II trial scheduled for the second half of 2006. -
Check advances made in microbicide development
While no microbicide has yet moved from the research pipeline to the pharmacy shelf, progress is going forward on several fronts to develop female-controlled physical and chemical barrier methods to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).