Vaginitis: Making Sense of Over-the-Counter Treatment Options
2007
Vaginitis: Understanding Over-the-Counter Treatments
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): B. Angotti, Lauren C. Lambert, Lara E. Soper, David E. Soper
Primary Institution: Medical University of South Carolina
Hypothesis
What is the efficacy of over-the-counter products marketed for the treatment of vaginitis?
Conclusion
45% of products available for treating vaginitis were found to lack confirmed efficacy.
Supporting Evidence
- All intravaginal imidazoles purchased were found to be effective.
- Vaginal anti-itch creams have no proven efficacy for treating vaginitis.
- Homeopathic treatments lack sufficient active ingredients to be effective.
Takeaway
Many products for treating vaginitis don't actually work, and some may even make things worse.
Methodology
Products were purchased from four retail locations, and a literature review was conducted to find RCTs on their efficacy.
Limitations
The study did not confirm the effectiveness of vaginal anti-itch creams and homeopathic treatments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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