Abstract

The seven makes of condom which are marketed in Denmark were examined for the nonoxynol content with the object of assessing whether the content of nonoxynol in the condoms is sufficient to present HIV spread in connection with use of the condom and assessed in relation to the defects in effectivity (tearing, holes, overflow of semen, sliding off). Compared with the declared content of nonoxynol of 40 mg (100%) per condom, the following nonoxynol quantities could be demonstrated by methanol/water extraction and subsequent high-performance liquid chromatography: One make of condom contained 65%, two 50-55% and four 25-33%. The nonoxynol content was found to be evenly distributed between the outer and inner surface of the condoms. With a theoretical distribution volume of 6 ml (tearing during vaginal coitus), it was found that three of the makes of condoms examined did not achieve the HIV-inhibiting nonoxynol concentration of 0.05%, by means of measuring the quantity of nonoxynol on the distal 5 cm of the condoms. In anal sex, the distribution volume is greater resulting in lower nonoxynol concentrations and thus increased risk for HIV infection. It is concluded that the nonoxynol content in the condoms marketed in Denmark should be increased in order to inactivate HIV in case of condom failure.

PIP:

The brands of condom which are marketed in Denmark were examined for nonoxynol content with the object of assessing whether such content is sufficient to prevent HIV spread and in relation to defects in its potential effectiveness. Using the methods of methanol/water extraction and subsequent high performance liquid chromatography (with the standard nonoxynol content being 40 mg [100%] per condom), 1 brand of condom contained 65%, 2 contained 50-55%, and 4 between 25-33%. The nonoxynol content was found to be evenly distributed between the outer and inner surfaces of the condom. With a theoretical distribution volume of 6 ml (tearing during vaginal coitus), it was found that 3 brands of condom did not achieve the HIV-inhibiting nonoxynol concentration of 0.05%. This was ascertained by measuring the quantity of nonoxynol on the distal 5 cm of the condoms. During anal sex, the distribution volume is greater which results in lower nonoxynol concentrations and thus increased risk for HIV infection. It is concluded that nonoxynol content in the condoms marketed in Denmark should be increased in order to inactivate HIV in the event of condom failure. (author's modified)