Development of a Nanoporous Elastomere Intra-Vaginal Ring (IVR) for the Sustained Release of Non-Hormonal Contraceptives

Development of a Nanoporous Elastomere Intra-Vaginal Ring (IVR) for the Sustained Release of Non-Hormonal Contraceptives

The goal of this investigation is the development a new biocompatible intra-vaginal ring (IVR) composed of nanoporous poly (diol citrate)elastomeres for a sustained release of nonhormonal contraceptives, namely ferrous gluconate to cause spermiostasis, ascorbic acid to increase cervical mucus viscosity, and a mixture of ampholines and/or poly L-glutamic acid (PGLA) buffer to sustain the pH at 4 to cause spermiostasis within 30 seconds, for the prevention of undesired pregnancy. The IVR of 5.5 cm in diameter and a rim of 0.5 cm is cast in a mold. The daily eluates of the IVR are tested for pH, spermiostatic and/or spermicidal activity and effect on the viscosity of cervical mucus. Results of this study are efficacious in vitro; the IVR has a shelf life of one year and provides the basis for the newly developed IVR containing non-hormonal contraceptives for in vivo use in women to prevent undesired pregnancy as well as pelvic and HIV infection simultaneously or HIV infection alone.