ReplensMD is the longer-lasting moisturising vaginal gel
It has a biological action that results in increased blood flow and natural vaginal secretions, and is indicated for:
- Symptomatic relief of vaginal atrophy, dryness, itching, irritation and discomfort
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is not intended for use as a substitute for hormonal replacement therapy, but it may be given concomitantly for the symptomatic relief of vaginal atrophy.
Multiple applications of the gel result in a change of pH towards the normal physiological range found in premenopausal women.
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is classified as a Medical Device – Class IIa and is listed in Part IXa of the Drug Tariff for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Excellent for menopausal and non-menopausal vaginal dryness
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is highly beneficial for the treatment of vaginal dryness and atrophy occurring in women during breastfeeding, under stress, during cancer-related medical treatments, as a side effect of some prescription medications, or with autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's Syndrome.
Find out more about causes of vaginal atrophy
Safe with HRT, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other treatments
There are no side effects, contraindications or hormone content, so ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser can be safely used alongside HRT, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other treatments.
Long-established and frequently prescribed
The ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser formula originates in the USA. It has been distributed in the UK for around 20 years and has gained a substantial following from clinicians and pharmacists. PCA 2010 data indicates that ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is the most commonly prescribed non-hormonal alternative treatment for symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser has been available on NHS prescription since 2005 and is also available for patients to buy over-the-counter at most high street and community pharmacies.
Prescriptions may be issued by GPs or nurse and pharmacist prescribers, hospital doctors, supplementary prescribers or ‘out of hours’ centres if correctly annotated.
Why is ReplensMD moisturiser unique?
Unlike lubricants, ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser attaches itself to mucin and epithelial cells in the vaginal wall, and retains moisture.
It contains polycarbophil, which is an excellent bioadhesive: it is a lightly cross-linked acrylic acid that picks up about sixty times its weight in water (normal mucin picks up 40 times its weight). This bioadhesive effect stimulates blood flow and promotes the return of natural secretions. And because it is cross-linked, it is insoluble, which allows it to remain in place until cells turn over (around 2-3 days).
Some patients experience a discharge when ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is first used. This results from the shedding of dry, redundant skin cells that have become caught in the gel. It is proof that ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is working and should not be mistaken for a vaginal infection or adverse reaction. Products that are only lubricants do not normally have this beneficial exfoliating capability.
What clinical evidence is there?
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser has been featured and trialled in a number of clinical studies and articles, for example:
- ReplensMD versus Dienestrol Cream in the Symptomatic Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy in Postmenopausal Women
- ReplensMD versus Local Estrogen in Menopausal Women
- The effect of ReplensMD on vaginal cytology in the treatment of postmenopausal atrophy; cytomorphology versus computerised cytometry
Abstracts of the above three studies, plus other examples, are included on this website, in the downloadable Insight brochure.
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser
Currently available in three pack sizes on NHS prescription.
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser 6s
A six-pack of pre-filled single-use applicators (paraben/preservative-free)
PIP code: 290 – 5966. This is two week’s supply.
NHS Price £5.89
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser 12-dose
A twelve-pack of pre-filled single-use applicators (paraben/preservative-free)
PIP code: 365 – 9281. This is one month’s supply.
NHS Price £11.54
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser 35g
A 35g tube plus reusable applicator, usable for up to four weeks per pack
PIP code: 290 – 7574. This is one month’s supply, in an economy pack.
NHS Price £5.89
Futher information
Press releases, fact sheets, etc. are available on our Press page.
ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is listed in part IXA (Appliances), under the subheading Vaginal Moisturisers. For further information regarding NHS prescribing view http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/PrescriptionServices.aspx