Type of medicine: vaginal contraceptive; spermicide
Generic and brand names: nonoxynol-9, vaginal sponge; Today Sponge
This sponge is inserted into the vagina to provide birth control. The medicine in the sponge kills sperm in the vagina.
It does NOT provide protection from HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.
Before using this medicine, talk with your healthcare provider if you have ever had:
Also, tell your healthcare provider if you or your partner has HIV infection.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have given birth or had an abortion or miscarriage less than 6 weeks ago.
Females of childbearing age: Talk with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or are breast-feeding.
The sponge should not be used during your menstrual period or right after childbirth. Ask your healthcare provider how long you should wait after childbirth before using this medicine.
This medicine is for vaginal use only. Do not use this medicine on the rectum. Use this medicine exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. This medicine may be available without a prescription. If your healthcare provider has not given you specific instructions, carefully follow the directions that come with the medicine package.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
Before using the sponge, carefully read the package instructions for inserting and removing the sponge. If you are unsure about how to use the sponge or have trouble using it, contact your healthcare provider or family planning clinic for help.
The sponge may be inserted up to 24 hours before intercourse. It must be left in place for 6 hours after intercourse. Do not wear the sponge for more than 30 hours in a row. If the sponge accidentally falls out, do not reinsert it. Use a new sponge. Do not use any other medicines in your vagina (such as douches or medicines for vaginal yeast infections) while the sponge is in your vagina.
Symptoms of an acute overdose have not been reported.
This form of birth control does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, or HIV. This medicine may irritate the vagina and rectum, which may increase the risk of getting HIV/AIDS from an infected partner.
You may have a rash, itching or irritation after using this medicine. If you or your partner get burning, itching, or a rash or other irritation of the vagina or penis, stop using this medicine and contact your healthcare provider.
If you need emergency care, surgery, or dental work, tell the healthcare provider or dentist you are using this medicine.
Along with its needed effects, this medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the device. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.
Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away). If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; chest pain or tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).
Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Fever; vomiting; diarrhea; muscular pain; dizziness; fainting; rash similar to sunburn; trouble urinating or pain while urinating; burning, itching, redness, or rash in the vagina or penis; bloody urine.
Other: White discharge.
No significant drug interactions have been reported.
Do not use any other medicines in your vagina (such as douches or medicines for vaginal yeast infections) while the sponge is in your vagina or unless your healthcare provider approves.
If you are not sure if your medicines might interact, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.
Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.
This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.
Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Do not share medicines with other people.
