TRANSCERVICAL QUINACRINE STERILIZATION - CLINICAL-EXPERIENCE

Objective: To review the use of quinacrine pellets for non-surgical fe male sterilization. Background: The transcervical insertion of quinacr ine pellets has been under study for over 15 years. It could potential ly expand access to sterilization services, because it is relatively s imple to administer, with the use of a modified IUD inserter, and is i nexpensive. Methods: Published and unpublished data are reviewed. Resu lts: The short-term safety of transcervical quinacrine appears to be b etter than surgical sterilization, but it is less effective, especiall y among women under 35, and there are virtually no data on its reversi bility. Thus, it is probably most appropriate for older women, aged 35 and over, but it could be an option for others where access to surgic al sterilization is limited. Conclusion: The use of quinacrine pellets for female sterilization needs to be reviewed by appropriate regulato ry authorities, especially with regard to long-term safety issues, and additional clinical studies are needed to better define a standardize d regimen.