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Lactic acid/citric acid/potassium bitartrate (Into the vagina)

Citric Acid (SIT-rik AS-id), Lactic Acid (LAK-tik AS-id), Potassium Bitartrate (poe-TAS-ee-um bye-TAR-trate)

Prevents pregnancy.

Brand Name(s):

Phexxi

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if had an allergic reaction to lactic acid, citric acid, or potassium bitartrate, or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Gel/Jelly

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. Use this medicine only in your vagina.
  • This medicine comes in a prefilled, disposable applicator. Use each applicator only once, and then throw it away.
  • You may use this medicine at any time during the menstrual cycle.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • This medicine should be used before having sexual intercourse. It will not prevent pregnancy if used after intercourse.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Do not use this medicine together with vaginal rings. Ask your doctor before you use other products or medicines into your vagina.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
  • Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you recently had a baby, miscarriage, or abortion.
  • Tell your doctor if you have a history of urinary tract problems, including an infection that keeps coming back.
  • This medicine may cause urinary tract infections, including cystitis (bladder infection) or pyelonephritis (kidney infection).
  • This medicine will not protect you from HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases.
  • You may use another form of birth control (including a condom or diaphragm) for added protection against pregnancy. You may also use this medicine with other products for vaginal infections (including metronidazole, miconazole, or tioconazole).
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Change in how much or how often you urinate, difficult or painful urination, lower back or side pain
  • Vaginal burning, itching, pain, discomfort, or discharge

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 12/4/2023

 

 
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