Question 1

What is Phexxi?

Accepted Answer

Phexxi is a combination of lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate that functions as a pH modulator. It works by maintaining an acidic environment to reduce the motility of sperm. This substance provides a non-hormonal approach to contraception by altering the local environment to inhibit sperm function. By regulating these levels, the substance creates a setting that is less favorable for sperm activity.

Question 2

What is Phexxi used for?

Accepted Answer

Phexxi is used to treat contraception.

Question 3

How does Phexxi work?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining Vaginal Acidity

The vagina is naturally acidic, typically maintaining a pH level between 3.5 and 4.5. This environment is naturally hostile to sperm. However, semen is alkaline, and when it enters the vagina, it raises the pH level, making it easier for sperm to survive and swim toward an egg.

Phexxi works by keeping the vaginal pH within its normal acidic range, even after semen is introduced. It contains three active ingredients—lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate—that act as a buffering agent to prevent the pH from rising.

Reducing Sperm Motility

By maintaining a low pH, Phexxi creates an environment that decreases sperm motility, which is the sperm's ability to move or swim. When sperm cannot move effectively, they are significantly less likely to travel through the cervix to fertilize an egg.

Unlike many other forms of birth control, Phexxi is non-hormonal. It does not stop ovulation or use hormones to prevent pregnancy; instead, it relies entirely on the physical-chemical environment of the vagina to inhibit sperm function.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Phexxi?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredients in Phexxi are:

Lactate

Citric acid

Potassium bitartrate

Question 5

What are the side effects of Phexxi?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Phexxi may include:

Vaginal burning

Vaginal itching

Urinary tract infection

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Phexxi?

Accepted Answer

Phexxi belongs to the non-hormonal contraceptive drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Phexxi and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

This medication is for vaginal use only. It comes in a pre-filled applicator that is used to insert the gel into the vagina. You should use one dose immediately before or up to one hour before each act of vaginal intercourse.

To use the applicator:

Remove the cap from the pre-filled applicator.

Gently insert the applicator into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go.

Push the plunger all the way in to release the gel.

Remove the applicator and dispose of it in the household trash.

The gel is effective for one hour after application. If you have vaginal intercourse more than once within an hour, or if more than one hour has passed since the first application and you plan to have intercourse again, you must apply a new dose.

This medication is not effective if applied after vaginal intercourse has already occurred. It can be used at any time during the menstrual cycle and may be used with other forms of birth control, such as condoms or diaphragms, but it should not be used with a vaginal ring.

Question 8

Is Phexxi safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Phexxi is a birth control method used to prevent pregnancy and has no known use once a pregnancy has started. If you suspect you are pregnant, you should stop using the gel and consult a healthcare professional.

Because the active ingredients in the gel work locally in the vagina and are not absorbed into the body, it is unlikely that exposure during pregnancy would harm a developing fetus. However, clinical trials for this product did not include pregnant individuals, so data on its effects during pregnancy are limited.

Breastfeeding

There is no specific information available regarding the presence of this medication's ingredients in human breast milk or its effects on milk production. Since the gel is not absorbed systemically into the user's bloodstream, it is not expected to pass into breast milk or pose a risk to a breastfeeding infant.

Individuals who are breastfeeding should talk to their healthcare provider about whether this contraceptive method is suitable for their needs.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Phexxi come in?

Accepted Answer

Dosage Form

Phexxi is available only as a vaginal gel. It is not available in other forms such as oral tablets, patches, or injections.

Strengths and Packaging

The medication is supplied in single-use, pre-filled applicators. Each applicator contains a 5-gram dose of gel consisting of the following active ingredients:

Lactic acid (1.8%)

Citric acid (1%)

Potassium bitartrate (0.4%)

Phexxi is typically distributed in boxes containing 12 applicators. Each applicator is individually wrapped in a foil pouch for single-dose administration.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Phexxi?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indication

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Phexxi in May 2020. It is a non-hormonal prescription gel indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. It is designed for use as an on-demand contraceptive method rather than a daily or long-acting option.

Limitations of Use

Phexxi has specific limitations regarding its effectiveness and use:

It does not protect against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

It is not recommended for use with vaginal rings.

It is not effective when administered after intercourse.

Safety Warnings

The FDA-approved labeling includes warnings about the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). There have been reports of cystitis and pyelonephritis (kidney infection) associated with its use. Healthcare providers generally advise against using Phexxi in individuals who have a history of recurrent UTIs or anatomical abnormalities of the urinary tract.

Question 11

What should I know about Phexxi and cost?

Accepted Answer

Brand-Name Status

Phexxi is a brand-name medication. There is currently no generic version available. Brand-name drugs typically cost more than generic versions because they are protected by patents that prevent other companies from making the same product for a certain period.

Insurance Coverage

The out-of-pocket cost for Phexxi varies significantly based on your health insurance plan. While many insurance plans are required to cover birth control, Phexxi may be listed on different tiers of a plan's formulary (a list of covered drugs). This tier placement determines your co-pay or co-insurance amount. You should contact your insurance provider to confirm if Phexxi is covered and what your specific cost will be.

Factors Influencing Cost

Several factors can affect the price you pay for this medication:

Pharmacy Selection: Prices can vary between different retail pharmacies and mail-order services.

Manufacturer Assistance: The company that makes Phexxi may offer savings cards or patient assistance programs to help reduce costs for eligible individuals.

Prescription Quantity: Phexxi is supplied in boxes of single-dose pre-filled applicators. The total cost will depend on the number of applicators prescribed and purchased at one time.

Phexxi

Medication Quick Facts

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What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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