Candles "Hexicon": effectiveness in the treatment of vaginitis (instructions for use)

Normally, the protection of the vaginal mucosa from infections is provided by certain immune and humoral factors. An important role is played by the composition of microflora, represented by more than 20 species of various microorganisms. Violation of these defense mechanisms leads to the activation of opportunistic microflora and the occurrence of inflammatory changes.

Causes of inflammation of the "female organs"

Vulvovaginitis and vaginitis are most often caused by the following types of microorganisms:

• staphylococci;
• streptococci;
• enterococci;
• corynebacteria;
• E. coli;
• gardnerella.

Basically, the pathology is caused precisely by the bacteria that are the inhabitants of the intestine - enterobacteria, coliform microorganisms. Less commonly, vulvovaginitis provokes gram-positive cocci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Corynebacterium.

Recently, it has been established that often inflammatory changes in the vagina are provoked immediately by two or three, and sometimes by a large number of pathogens. Vaginitis of mixed etiology is diagnosed in more than a third of patients.

Not so rarely, simultaneously with opportunistic microflora, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are detected. Most often, smears in patients with vulvovaginitis are detected chlamydiaTrichomonas, ureaplasma, gonococcal infection. Inflammatory diseases of the vagina and external genital organs, caused by a mixed infection, are especially difficult. Under certain conditions, they can lead to complications in the form of infection spreading to other parts of the woman’s reproductive system. In addition, diseases of mixed etiology are especially prone to chronicity of the process with the occurrence of frequent relapses.

The benefits of topical preparations

That is why the treatment of such pathologies requires the appointment of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents. However, most of the antibacterial pharmaceuticals are not suitable for the treatment of chronic forms of the disease, in addition, they often cause a violation of the vaginal microflora. In addition, most pathogens become resistant to certain antibiotics over time. This is especially true for systemic drugs administered orally or parenterally.

Optimal for the treatment of vaginitis in women are topical preparations. The main advantages of their use are as follows:

• lack of a large number of side effects;
• simplicity, ease of use;
• minimum contraindications.

What is this medicine and what are the candles treated

Do hexicon candles help and how to insert them correctly? "Hexicon" is a drug that has antimicrobial and antiprotozoal activity. It can be used both for treatment and for the prevention of infections of the vagina and external genitalia. "Hexosept" in candles can be used only locally. How many days to put candles? See the instructions or follow your doctor's prescription.

The main active ingredient of this pharmaceutical product is chlorhexidine bigluconate, a substance with a strong antimicrobial effect. One Hexicon candle contains 0.016 g of chlorhexidine. Additionally, the composition includes a filler (macrogol), which dissolves under the action of heat and ensures uniform distribution of the drug.

In the pharmacy network, you can also find the drug "Hexicon D", which contains only 0.008 g of chlorhexidine. It is intended for the treatment of pediatric patients and girls who do not live sexually.

The spectrum of antimicrobial activity of "Hexicon" is quite extensive. It is effective against the following pathogens:

• pale treponema;
• chlamydia
• ureaplasma;
• gonococcus;
• gardnerella;
• bacteroids;
• Trichomonas;
• herpes simplex virus.

The mechanism of action of chlorhexidine is the formation of its active forms in the lumen of the vagina. The drug substance interacts with the shells of bacteria and leads to disruption of the transport of potassium and phosphorus ions and the death of bacteria.

This process is also facilitated by the filler that is part of the drug. It actively adsorbs secretions and potentiates the antimicrobial properties of chlorhexidine. Therefore, the drug also works well in the presence of pus or blood. The use of "Hexicon" during menstruation is allowed, moreover, if treatment is started earlier, it is not recommended to stop it.

After introduction into the vagina, the drug binds well to the structures of the vaginal mucosa. However, it is practically not absorbed into the systemic circulation. It was established in experiments that even with accidental ingestion of chlorhexidine, only a very small amount is absorbed into the blood.

What diseases are prescribed

The main indications for the use of "Hexicon" are as follows:

• vaginosis with gardnerellosis;
• vaginitis;
• colpitis;
• cervicitis;
• vulvit, vulvovaginitis and associated cystitis;
• at cervical erosion in complex therapy.

Also, the medicine is actively used for preventive purposes. Assign "Hexicon" for:

• STI prevention after unprotected intercourse;
• before gynecological operations;
• with the introduction of an intrauterine device;
• after diathermocoagulation due to cervical erosion;
• before childbirth with elevated white blood cells in a smear;
• with an established pessary;
• after genital surgery.

Candles "Hexicon": instructions for use

Suppositories "Hexicon" are used only vaginally. It is not recommended to use suppositories rectally or as an ointment.

• The introduction of the drug. Before their introduction, it is necessary to conduct a toilet of the genitals. After this, you need to carefully remove the suppository from the package, for better administration it can be moistened with water. A chlorhexidine suppository is administered deep into the vagina.
• Course treatment. According to the official instructions, for medicinal purposes, candles should be used twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. Usually, the duration of therapy does not exceed ten days.
• Use in children. For the treatment of children, you can also use candles "Hexicon" with a dosage of 0.016 g. Before insertion, the candle is cut lengthwise into two parts and then give it a torpedo shape with your hands.
• For prevention. If the medicine is used for prophylactic purposes after an accidental intercourse, then the regimen is somewhat different. In this case, only one candle is administered over the next two hours, but not later. Combine "Hexicon" and sexual intercourse should only be in individual cases, it will be much safer to use barrier methods of contraception (condom).

Side effects and contraindications

According to doctors, the drug is very well tolerated. Occasionally, local side effects may occur:

• burning sensation in the vagina;
• itching
• allergic manifestations in the form of edema, redness, rash.

Contraindication to the use of the drug is only individual intolerance to chlorhexidine or excipient. Also, do not use "Hexicon" at the same time as cosmetic preparations containing detergents. This is true in the case of intravaginal use of such funds.

Acquisition and analogues

You can buy "Hexicon" candles in any pharmacy network. Given that they are domestic production, their cost is low. A package of ten candles will cost 260-280 rubles (data for October 2017).

Also, the pharmacist can offer analogues:

• "Chlorhexidine";
• "Depantol."

The long-term use of “Hexicon” in gynecology allowed us to study well all its positive aspects. Clinical studies have proven its safety and effectiveness in inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs. Given the lack of systemic action, it can be used even during pregnancy or lactation. An important advantage of this medication is the absence of a negative effect on the microflora of the vagina. Unlike tablets, Geksikon suppositories do not have an adverse effect on the body and act exclusively locally. Therefore, they can be used not only for medical, but also for preventive purposes.

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