TITLE:
Topical Treatment of Infectious Vaginitis: Effects of Antibiotic, Antifungal and Antiseptic Drugs on the Growth of Normal Vaginal Lactobacillus Strains
AUTHORS:
Christel Neut, François Verrière, Hans J. Nelis, Tom Coenye
KEYWORDS:
Lactobacillus, Infectious Vaginitis, Antiseptics, Antibiotics, Antifungal Agents
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Vol.5 No.3,
March
25,
2015
ABSTRACT: Objectives: The balance of the vaginal ecosystem
depends on lactobacilli whose biofilm protectsagainst microorganisms that are
not normally present or are subdominant in vaginal flora. Vaginalinfection treatments should eliminate
pathogens while preserving theLactobacillusflora to prevent relapse or recurrence. The objective
of this study was to determine the sensitivity of lactobacilli to antiseptics,
antibiotics and antifungal agents used, alone or in combination, in the topical
treatment of infectious vaginitis. Materials and Methods: The minimum
inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 15 active ingredients and the minimum
inhibitory dilution (MID) of 17 pharmaceuticals products were determined for
three mainLactobacillusstrains (L.
crispatus,L.
gasseriandL. jensenii).
Results: The MICs of the antibiotics and antifungal agents were above their
critical concentrations in the three strains, contrary to the antiseptics.
According to their MID, some pharmaceutical products, especially combinations,
inhibit the growth of one or more strains at concentrations that can be found
in the vaginal mucosa after application at the usual dosage. Conclusions:
Certain topical anti-infective drugs may interfere with the growth of
lactobacilli, worsening the vaginal flora imbalance. Maintaining vaginal flora
balance should be a selection criterion when choosing an anti-infective therapy.