Spermicide As a
spermicide, it attacks the
acrosomal membranes of the
sperm, causing the sperm to be immobilized. Nonoxynol-9 is the active ingredient in most spermicidal creams, jellies, foams, gel, film, and
suppositories.
Lubricant Nonoxynol-9 is a common ingredient of most vaginal and anal lubricants due to its spermicidal properties. A 2004 study found that over a six-month period, the
typical-use failure rates for five nonoxynol-9
vaginal contraceptives (film, suppository, and gels at three different concentrations) ranged from 10% to 20%.
Condoms Many models of
condoms are
lubricated with solutions containing nonoxynol-9. In this role, it has been promoted as a backup method for avoiding pregnancy and a
microbicide for sexually transmitted diseases in the event of condom failure. However, the 2001
WHO /
CONRAD Technical Consultation on Nonoxynol-9 concluded that:
There is no published scientific evidence that N-9-lubricated condoms provide any additional protection against pregnancy or STDs compared with condoms lubricated with other products. Since adverse effects due to the addition of N-9 to condoms cannot be excluded, such condoms should no longer be promoted. However, it is better to use N-9-lubricated condoms than no condoms. Compared to regular lubricated condoms, condoms containing nonoxynol-9 present another disadvantage — they are limited by the shelf-life of the spermicide.
Cervical barriers Almost all brands of
diaphragm jelly contain nonoxynol-9 as the active ingredient. This jelly may also be used for a
cervical cap. Most
contraceptive sponges contain nonoxynol-9 as an active ingredient.
Shaving cream Nonoxynol-9 is sometimes included in shaving creams for its properties as a nonionic surfactant; it helps break down skin oils that normally protect hair from moisture, so that they become wet and, hence, softer and easier to shave.
Gillette formerly used nonoxynol-9 for this purpose in its Foamy products, but has discontinued the practice.
Sports cream Nonoxynol-9 is also found in
Bengay Vanishing Scent as an inactive ingredient.
Poison ivy creams Nonoxynol-9 is also found in Zanfel poison ivy cream. It effectively helps to break up the oil
urushiol that causes the rash. ==Side effects==