Colposeptine

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Colposeptine

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Chlorquinaldol, Promestriene
Form Vaginal ovules (suppositories)
Pharmacological Class Antiseptic/Antifungal Agent & Local Trophic Agent
Primary Action Dual: Microbial control and tissue support
Origin Synthetic Combination

Defining Colposeptine: A Dual-Action Topical Gynecological Agent

Colposeptine is a specialized topical gynecological preparation that delivers dual-action therapy through its two distinct active components. It is classified as a synthetic combination product that pairs an Antiseptic and Antifungal Agent with a Local Estrogenic (Trophic) Agent. This formulation is clinically recognized for addressing conditions where both microbial balance and mucosal structural integrity require simultaneous support.

A key differentiating feature is that the product combines the antimicrobial properties of a quinoline derivative, Chlorquinaldol, with the tissue-supporting qualities of the synthetic estrogen derivative, Promestriene. This prescription medicine is specifically positioned for use in defined gynecological contexts, emphasizing targeted therapeutic intervention.

Core Composition and Pharmaceutical Form

The medicine is supplied as vaginal ovules, a solid form designed to melt and ensure highly targeted local administration of the components within the vaginal mucosa. The ovule contains the antiseptic agent Chlorquinaldol and the trophic agent Promestriene. The delivery system ensures that the desired structural support is delivered locally, as Promestriene is structurally configured to exert its effects at the application site with minimal systemic absorption.

General Purpose: Antiseptic Protection and Mucosal Support

The fundamental purpose of this product is to concurrently suppress microbial proliferation and facilitate tissue healing. Chlorquinaldol provides necessary local antibacterial, antifungal, and antiprotozoal properties, acting as the protective agent against various microorganisms. Concurrently, Promestriene delivers its trophic effect, which promotes the structural integrity and re-epithelialization of the vaginal mucosa. This combined mechanism is intended to support the rapid recovery and sustained health of the vaginal environment in scenarios involving localized tissue changes.

Regulatory References

  1. DrugBank: Chlorquinaldol/Promestriene
  2. Route of Administration: Vaginal/Local
  3. Trophic Effect of Estrogens
  4. Vaginal Mucosa Anatomy

What side effects are possible with Colposeptine?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Colposeptine (Chlorquinaldol / Promestriene) is characterized by adverse reactions that are primarily local in nature, consistent with its design as a vaginal ovule intended for localized action with minimal systemic absorption. Official regulatory documents categorize these effects based on frequency and the affected body system, providing a framework for understanding the medicine's risk profile.

Officially Documented Adverse Reactions

The adverse events associated with this medicine are formally classified by frequency, with the most important signals related to the site of application. Serious systemic reactions typical of orally administered estrogen therapy are not listed in the official safety information.

Category Official Regulatory Classification
Local Allergic Reactions Rare (Manifesting as localized rash, itching, or swelling).
Vaginal Bleeding Frequency Not Known (Includes terms such as Menorrhagia, Metrorrhagia, and Genital haemorrhage, identified through post-marketing safety signals).

System-Organ-Class Grouping

The adverse reactions are grouped within official labels according to the physiological system involved:

  • Reproductive system and breast disorders: Associated with the reporting of vaginal bleeding events.
  • Immune system disorders / Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Associated with the manifestation of local allergic reactions.

Key Safety Characteristics

The safety profile is largely constrained to local effects, which is consistent with the topical delivery of the medicine. No specific safety considerations or required adjustments are explicitly documented for special populations such as older adults or those with renal or hepatic impairment, nor are there explicit statements regarding time- or duration-related patterns for these adverse effects in the regulatory texts. No adverse event is explicitly categorized as a Serious Adverse Reaction in the publicly available product-specific regulatory safety updates.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory documentation for Colposeptine defines the overdose risk primarily through the product’s localized application. Given the vaginal route of administration and the very weak passage of the active components into the general circulation, the official prescribing information states that the risk of systemic overdose is unlikely.

The documented clinical manifestations of overdose are therefore constrained to localized effects resulting from excessive product use. The regulatory documents note that excessive use may lead to an exacerbation of local adverse effects. These documented symptoms include vaginal irritations, vaginal itching (pruritus), and burning at the site of administration.

Official Emergency Response and Management

The official labeling does not mandate explicit actions such as contacting emergency services or seeking immediate medical attention specifically for an overdose scenario. This is consistent with the assessment that systemic toxicity is not expected. Furthermore, the regulatory documents do not specify a known antidote, procedural steps for decontamination, or requirements for hospital monitoring or observation. Any necessary care would address the documented local discomforts.

Official Regulatory Statement Status in Overdose Section
Risk of Systemic Overdose Unlikely
Documented Symptoms Local Irritation, Itching, Burning
Antidote Specified None

Therapeutic Uses of Colposeptine

What Colposeptine Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Colposeptine is commonly used to help manage the symptomatic discomfort of vaginal atrophy complicated by a surinfection (a secondary microbial issue). This dual application is relevant across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. It is considered relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort due to both tissue fragility and infectious manifestations, and helps support general well-being during symptomatic phases. This combined approach is relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort when multiple symptoms occur together.

The medication is relevant for use in conditions such as chronic cervicitis, certain presentations of vulvovaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis, and in the supportive management of cervical erosion. It may assist with easing distressing manifestations like abnormal vaginal discharge (leukorrhea), localized itching, and irritation, and supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress. The product is often applied as part of the symptomatic management of more complex or chronic conditions, and its use is considered appropriate when short-term symptom management is needed.


Quick Fact: Relief for Dual Discomfort

Benefit Focus Description
Symptom Support May assist with easing symptom clusters related to inflammatory or irritative states.
Functional Support Contributes to maintaining functional stability.
Symptom Easing Supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress and discomfort.

Regulatory References

  1. French National Authority for Health (HAS) evaluation

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Colposeptine

This section outlines the official population eligibility and non-eligibility rules for Colposeptine (Chlorquinaldol and Promestriene), based strictly on governmental regulatory documents.


Eligibility Scope

Classification Regulatory Status
Populations for whom use is allowed Adult women (implicitly defined by the labeled gynecological indication for vaginal atrophy).
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Individuals with known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the active substances or any excipient.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Individuals who are breastfeeding (lactating).
Pregnancy Eligibility Status Use is not recommended, as regulatory documents state the medicine has no reason to be used during pregnancy.
Eligibility-Related Restrictions Use is prohibited in association with spermicidal products and latex condoms.
Age-Related Eligibility Use is generally restricted to the adult population based on the nature of the condition treated.

Resulting Eligibility Structure

Regulatory documents define who cannot use Colposeptine by establishing strict absolute contraindications for patients with hypersensitivity to any component or who are breastfeeding. Use is also formally prohibited in conjunction with spermicides and latex condoms. The medicine is designated for adult women and is generally not recommended during pregnancy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Colposeptine is primarily characterized by the local action of its components, leading to a highly restricted list of documented systemic interactions.

Interaction Scope

The sole documented interaction pattern is a Local Pharmacodynamic Interference involving other local contraceptive products. Specifically, the regulatory documentation identifies spermicides as the interacting substances. The basis for this interaction is that co-administration of any local vaginal treatment is described as being susceptible to the inactivation of the local spermicide contraceptive. No timing-based separation rules or population-specific interaction considerations (e.g., in cases of organ impairment) are documented in the official labeling.

Interaction Classifications (High-Level)

This restriction, classified by the French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) as an Association to be Avoided (Associations déconseillées), applies only in the context of simultaneous local administration where physical interference is possible. The official labeling does not document any systemic pharmacokinetic interactions, such as those involving metabolic enzymes (like CYP) or drug transporters. Furthermore, official patient information explicitly states that interactions with food, beverages, or alcohol are not applicable.

Resulting Interaction Structure

The overall interaction profile is defined by the absence of documented systemic interaction risks, which is consistent with the product's very low systemic absorption. The only official constraint is the requirement to avoid co-administration with spermicides due to the documented risk of local physical interference.

Mechanism of Action

How Colposeptine Works


Targeting Microbial Signaling Pathways

This domain focuses on the action of Chlorquinaldol. It engages mechanisms that inhibit pathogen metabolism and alter the internal pH of microorganisms, which are initial molecular steps that shape the downstream effect of pathogen death. This results in the suppression of microbial proliferation and limits the generation of pathogen-derived products.


Modulation of Local Epithelial Regulation

This cluster involves Promestriene, an estrogen derivative, which acts locally on the vaginal mucous epithelium. It supports the regulation of processes driven by distinct signaling patterns to promote the differentiation and maturation of the vaginal epithelium and increase glycogen secretion. This results in the induction of epithelial proliferation and increased glycogen synthesis, altering the local biological environment.


Impact on Local Microbiota Balance

This mechanism is the downstream result of epithelial promotion by Promestriene. The stimulation of epithelial maturation supports the regeneration of Lactobacillus acidophilus. The synthesis of lactic acid by the promoted L. acidophilus population results in a sustained decrease in local pH.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Colposeptine

This section describes the administration and usage patterns of Colposeptine.


Administration Protocol

The route of administration for this medicine is topical vaginal application; the product must not, under any circumstances, be ingested. The standard regimen mandates the insertion of one ovule per day, typically applied in the evening. To ensure proper application and dissolution of the active ingredients, the ovule, which contains Chlorquinaldol (200 mg) and Promestriene (10 mg), must be moistened in water beforehand. Following this preparation, the unit is to be introduced deeply into the vagina.


Treatment Schedule and Duration

The standard duration for a course of Colposeptine is a fixed period of 18 consecutive days. This daily application schedule is intended to be maintained even if the treatment course overlaps with the menstrual period. While the initial course is fixed at 18 days, the overall regimen can be adjusted according to clinical necessity.


Contextual Usage Principles

Classification Detail
Administration Route Vaginal (local topical use only)
Frequency Pattern Once daily (fixed, short-term course)
Population Adjustments No specific dose adjustments for older adults or organ impairment are documented
Usage Constraint The use of any local vaginal treatment may potentially compromise the effectiveness of local spermicidal contraception

The instructions establish a structured, daily use protocol for 18 days via the correct route and require a preparation step. The schedule also provides explicit guidance on adherence by mandating continued use throughout the menstrual cycle.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Colposeptine

Evidence for Dual-Action Use in Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Research examining this indication was studied for its application in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Studies were conducted using rigorous randomized, controlled trial designs, primarily involving adult women. The research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as the presence or absence of self-reported vaginal symptoms, and measured the microbial status using clinical scoring methods.

Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to the shift in microbial status and how self-reported symptoms evolved in the observed populations. Following the study intervention, studies monitored the return of symptoms over defined time intervals. Research describes group patterns that were observed in the study participants.

Evidence for Trophic Support in Vaginal Atrophy (GSM)

The trophic component was evaluated in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, mainly applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences in postmenopausal women with symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). Studies monitored outcomes related to tissue structural integrity, such as objective tissue health indicators like the Vaginal Health Index (VHI) score. The research also examined the question of absorption and described that systemic hormone levels were observed in some studies to be at typical postmenopausal levels, which aligns with an action primarily focused on the application site.

Known Limitations and Areas of Uncertainty

Evidence quality varies across studies, with some research being constrained by factors such as modest sample sizes or open-label study designs, which may influence the certainty of the observations. Follow-up durations were limited in many core studies. Comparative evidence is limited for certain indications, and long-term effects are not fully established. Findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes, and results apply only to the populations studied.

Key Studies & References

  1. COLPOSEPTINE - Commission de la Transparence (CT) 9692
  2. A Phase IV Multi-center, Randomized, Controlled Study of Colposeptine for Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis (NCT01153958)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Colposeptine (FAQ)


Q: Can Colposeptine cause vaginal discharge to change?

Regulatory documents describing the mechanism of action indicate that Colposeptine is designed to affect the vaginal environment. The process involves one component supporting the regeneration of the vaginal lining and the growth of beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria, which may lead to a noticeable alteration in vaginal discharge.


Q: Is it better to insert Colposeptine at night?

Official regulatory documents specify the standard regimen involves inserting one ovule per day, and this is typically done in the evening. This timing is standard for products administered via the vaginal route.


Q: Can I use Colposeptine if I am using other topical vaginal products?

Regulatory documents advise that any local vaginal treatment may potentially interfere with other locally administered products. The use of Colposeptine is contraindicated (prohibited) with spermicidal contraception. If you are using non-contraceptive topical products, official information recommends consulting your prescribing professional.


Q: Can Colposeptine be used to treat yeast infections?

Regulatory information indicates that Colposeptine contains the active ingredient Chlorquinaldol, which is classified as an antifungal and antiseptic agent. This component is part of the drug’s dual action when treating vaginal conditions.


Q: Is Colposeptine effective against bacterial vaginosis?

The official indications include the treatment of non-specific vaginal infections, which often covers those associated with Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Studies for this medicine have examined outcomes related to the microbial status in populations with BV.


Q: Can Colposeptine be used by younger women or adolescents?

Regulatory documents generally restrict the use of Colposeptine to the adult population. This restriction is based on the conditions the medicine is designed to treat, such as vaginal atrophy, which are typically experienced by adults.


Q: Does using Colposeptine affect the pH balance of the vagina?

Yes, its mechanism of action is designed to influence the local pH. The action of one component supports the regeneration of Lactobacillus bacteria, and the resulting synthesis of lactic acid is what leads to a sustained decrease in the local vaginal pH.


Q: Does Colposeptine treat vaginal dryness?

The product is indicated for symptoms related to vaginal atrophy (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, or GSM), a condition that includes vaginal dryness. The Promestriene component provides a local tissue-supporting (trophic) effect.


Q: Is Colposeptine used outside of the treatment for vaginal infections?

Yes, it is indicated for a dual purpose. In addition to treating vaginal infections, it is also used for the local treatment of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women.


Q: What are the concerns about using Colposeptine if I have liver or kidney issues?

Official safety documents do not explicitly document any specific safety considerations or dose adjustments required for patients with liver or kidney impairment. This reflects the product’s design for localized action with minimal systemic absorption.


Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while using Colposeptine?

No. Official patient information explicitly states that Colposeptine is a local-acting product and has no documented interactions with food, beverages, or alcohol.


Q: Can Colposeptine be used if I am going through menopause?

Yes. The trophic component is primarily evaluated and indicated for use in postmenopausal women for the treatment of vaginal atrophy (GSM), which is a common condition during this period.


Q: What is the reason Colposeptine is available as a vaginal pessary and not an oral tablet?

Regulatory information indicates that this local administration route is required because the Promestriene component is structurally configured to exert its intended effects at the application site with minimal systemic absorption. The pessary form ensures targeted delivery.

How should Colposeptine be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Colposeptine?

The official storage and disposal requirements for Colposeptine are defined in regulatory documents to ensure the stability and safety of the product. Based on the manufacturer's official labeling in countries where the product is approved, the following constraints apply to storage and disposal:

Storage & Disposal Scope Official Regulatory Statement
Temperature Requirements Store the product below 25 C (77 F).
Protection Requirements Keep the medicine in its original outer carton to protect it from light.
Child-Safety Storage As with all medicines, keep Colposeptine out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Instructions The product should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.

Regulatory agencies classify the required storage as requiring protection from light and temperature control to ensure the integrity of the active components. Once the medicine is no longer needed or has expired, it must be disposed of according to local pharmaceutical waste guidelines to prevent environmental contamination.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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