Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Labeling for Natural Rubber Latex Condoms Classified Under 21 CFR 884.5300

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

Class II Special Controls Guidance
Document: Labeling for Natural Rubber
Latex Condoms Classified Under 21
CFR 884.5300
Document issued on December 23, 2008.
The draft of this document was issued November 14, 2005.
OMB control number: 0910-0633
Expiration date: May 31, 2018
See additional PRA statement in section VIII of this guidance.
For questions regarding this document, contact Paul F. Tilton 301-796-5484 or by email at
Paul.Tilton@fda.hhs.gov (mailto:Paul.Tilton@fda.hhs.gov).
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Food and Drug Administration
Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Ob/Gyn, Gastroenterology and Urology Devices Branch
Division of Enforcement A
Office of Compliance
Preface
Public Comment
Written comments and suggestions may be submitted at any time for Agency consideration to the Division
of Dockets Management, Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061, (HFA-305),
Rockville, MD, 20852. Alternatively, electronic comments may be submitted to Regulations.gov
(http://www.regulations.gov). When submitting comments, please refer to Docket No. FDA-2004-D-0375.
Comments may not be acted upon by the Agency until the document is next revised or updated.
Additional Copies
Additional copies are available from the Internet. You may also send an e-mail request to CDRH-Guidance@fda.hhs.gov (mailto:CDRH-Guidance@fda.hhs.gov) to receive a copy of the guidance. Please
use the document number (1688) to identify the guidance you are requesting.
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
II. Background
III. Other Labeling Requirements

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

IV. Scope
V. Issues Requiring Special Controls
VI. Labeling Recommendations
VII. Examples of Condom Labeling that Follow the Recommendations in the Guidance
VIII. Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff
Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Labeling for Natural
Rubber Latex Condoms Classified Under 21 CFR 884.5300
I. Introduction
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has developed this guidance as a special controls guidance for
male condoms made from natural rubber latex without spermicidal lubricant (latex condoms).1 This
guidance is issued in conjunction with a Federal Register notice announcing the amendment of 21 CFR
884.5300, an existing classification for condoms, from class II (performance standards) to class II (special
controls). The amended classification designates this guidance document as the special control for latex
condoms.
Latex condoms that are the subject of premarket notification submissions (510(k)s) filed on or after January
9, 2009, the effective date of the final rule designating this as a special control, are expected to comply with
the requirement of special controls immediately upon the rule taking effect. Therefore, a firm submitting a
510(k) for a latex condom on or after the effective date of the rule must address the issues of safety and
effectiveness identified in this special controls guidance, either by following the recommendations of this
guidance or by some other means that provides equivalent assurances of safety and effectiveness.
Latex condoms that are the subject of a 510(k) that is pending on the effective date of the final rule but are
subsequently cleared are expected to comply with the requirement of special controls and address the
issues of safety and effectiveness identified in this special controls guidance, either by following the
recommendations in this guidance or by some other means that provides equivalent assurances of safety
and effectiveness, on or before March 10, 2009.
Latex condoms that were legally marketed prior to the effective date of the final rule are expected to comply
with the requirement of special controls and address the issues of safety and effectiveness identified in this
special controls guidance, either by following the recommendations in this guidance or by some other
means that provides equivalent assurances of safety and effectiveness, on or before December 10, 2009.
If you want to discuss an alternative means of satisfying the requirement of special controls for latex
condoms, you may contact the FDA staff responsible for implementing this guidance. If you cannot identify
the appropriate FDA staff, call the appropriate number listed on the title page of this guidance.
The Least Burdensome Approach
In developing this guidance, we carefully considered the relevant statutory criteria for agency decisionmaking. We also considered the burden that may be incurred in your attempt to comply with the guidance
and address the issues we have identified. We believe that we have considered the least burdensome
approach to resolving the issues presented in the guidance document. If, however, you believe that there is
a less burdensome way to address the issues, you should follow the procedures outlined in the “A Suggested Approach to Resolving Least Burdensome Issues (ssLINK/ucm136685.htm)” document.

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

II. Background
FDA believes that special controls, when combined with the general controls, will be sufficient to provide a
reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of latex condoms. Thus, a manufacturer who intends
to market a device of this type must (1) conform to the general controls of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (the Act), including the 510(k) requirements described in 21 CFR Part 807, Subpart E, and
the Quality Systems Regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and (2) address the specific issues requiring special
controls associated with these devices as identified in this guidance, either in the user labeling as
recommended here or in some other way that provides equivalent assurances of safety and effectiveness.
This special controls guidance document provides the classification and product code for latex condoms
(refer to Section IV). In addition, other sections of this guidance document list the issues requiring special
controls identified by FDA and describe labeling measures that, if followed by manufacturers, will generally
address the issues requiring special controls associated with this device.
The labeling recommendations in this guidance document reflect an extensive review on the part of the
Agency, in consultation with the National Institutes for Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), of the available medical literature on the safety and effectiveness of latex condoms
intended to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In addition, the Agency
considered other relevant information related to the barrier properties of latex condoms and the various
routes of transmission of STIs, as well as public comments on the draft of this guidance, issued November
14, 2005 (70 FR 69156).
III. Other Labeling Requirements
While this guidance document provides examples of labeling recommended to meet the requirement of
special controls for latex condoms under 21 CFR 884.5300(b)(2), there are also other specific labeling
requirements for latex condoms contained in the following two regulations:
• user labeling for latex condoms (21 CFR 801.435), and
• user labeling for devices that contain natural rubber (21 CFR 801.437).
Additionally, condom manufacturers must ensure that their devices meet the general labeling requirements
for medical devices described in 21 CFR Part 801.
Labeling requirements for latex condoms include the following:
A. Expiration date (21 CFR 801.435)
The retail and primary condom package (individual foil packet) must include an expiration date that is no
later than five years from the date of product packaging. This expiration date must be supported by shelf life
data developed by the condom manufacturer. For details, please see 21 CFR 801.435, “User labeling for
latex condoms.” This regulation addresses the risk of condom deterioration due to product aging.
B. Caution regarding natural rubber latex and allergic reactions (21 CFR 801.437)
Latex condoms, and all other devices composed of, or containing, natural rubber latex that contacts
humans, are required to bear the following statement in bold print:
Caution: This Product Contains Natural Rubber Latex Which May Cause Allergic Reactions.

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

This statement must appear on all device labels, and other labeling, and must also appear on the principal
display panel of the device packaging, the outside package, container or wrapper, and the immediate
device package, container, or wrapper. For details, please see 21 CFR 801.437, “User labeling for devices
that contain natural rubber." This labeling requirement is necessary because devices composed of, or
containing, natural rubber latex, pose a significant health risk to some individuals.
C. General labeling requirements
All devices, including latex condoms, are subject to the general labeling provisions described in 21 CFR
Part 801, Subpart A. Additionally, latex condoms are over-the-counter (OTC) devices, and are therefore
subject to the requirements for OTC devices described in 21 CFR Part 801, Subpart C. You should
familiarize yourself with these labeling requirements. This special controls guidance is consistent with these
requirements and, in fact, some of the labeling terminology used in this guidance is described by these
regulations.
Latex condoms must also include adequate directions for use to avoid being misbranded (section 502(f) of
the Act, 21 U.S.C. 352(f); 21 CFR 801.5). Adequate directions for use help ensure that the condom will be
used correctly. (Section VI.3., includes an example of acceptable directions for use of latex condoms.)
FDA has included examples of labeling that incorporate the requirements of the Act and regulations and the
recommendations made in this special controls guidance document in Section VII, below.
IV. Scope
The scope of this special controls guidance document is limited to male condoms made from natural rubber
latex without spermicidal lubricant (latex condoms). Latex condoms are described in 21 CFR 884.5300 as
follows:
A condom is a sheath which completely covers the penis with a closely fitting membrane. The condom is
used for contraceptive and for prophylactic purposes (preventing transmission of sexually transmitted
infections). The device may also be used to collect semen to aid in the diagnosis of infertility.
Latex condoms are the subset of these condoms made of natural rubber latex and are assigned the product
code HIS. (See 21 CFR 884.5300(b)(2).)
Exclusions from the Scope of this Guidance:
This guidance has not been established as a special control for male condoms with spermicidal lubricant
(21 CFR 884.5310). Likewise, this guidance has not been established as a special control for male
condoms made of natural membrane (skin) or synthetic materials that are classified under 21 CFR
884.5300(b)(1). Because male condoms with spermicidal lubricant, natural membrane condoms, and
synthetic condoms differ in some respects from latex condoms without spermicidal lubricant, this special
control guidance does not address these products.
V. Issues Requiring Special Controls
FDA has identified the following issues requiring special controls associated with the use of latex condoms,
which can be mitigated by the labeling recommended in the special controls guidance. The recommended
mitigation measures (labeling) are intended to provide information to users about the extent of protection
provided by latex condoms to help prevent pregnancy and help prevent the spread of various types of STIs.
The labeling provides important information for condom users to assist them in determining whether latex
condoms are appropriate for their needs, as well as instructions for optimal use.

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

Table 1 includes risks associated with sexual intercourse, i.e., unintended pregnancy and STI transmission,
that latex condoms are intended to prevent. This special controls guidance document addresses how
manufacturers can label their latex condoms to help assure that they will be safe and effective for these
intended uses, which are of significant personal and public health concern. Labeling for latex condoms
should follow the mitigation measures suggested in Table 1. All the labeling recommendations are
discussed in more detail in Section VI.
A. Issues Requiring Special Controls and Recommended Mitigation Measures for Latex Condoms
Table 1. Identified Issues and Recommended Mitigation Measures
Identified issues*

Recommended mitigation measures

1. Risk of Unintended Pregnancy

Labeling should indicate that latex condoms are intended to prevent
pregnancy. Labeling should indicate that condom use does not eliminate the
risk of pregnancy and also indicate the importance of correct and consistent
use.
Labeling should indicate that consumers should consult a health care
provider if they have questions about birth control options, particularly
because of health reasons for avoiding pregnancy.
Labeling should include information comparing the percentage of women
experiencing unintended pregnancy during one year of use of latex condoms
with rates experienced during one year of use of other contraceptive methods
available in the U.S., including drugs, devices, and methods of permanent
sterilization . The information should address, at minimum, typical use rates.

2. Risk of Transmission of Sexually
Transmitted Infections (STIs)
• Condoms reduce the overall risk
of STI transmission (including
transmission of HIV/AIDS and
other STIs).
• Degree of protection against
different types of STIs varies.

Labeling should indicate that latex condoms are intended to prevent
HIV/AIDS and other STIs. Labeling should indicate that condom use does not
eliminate the risk of STIs and also indicate the importance of correct and
consistent use.
Labeling should indicate that latex condoms reduce the risk of transmission
of STIs by providing a barrier against the source of the infection.
Labeling should indicate that condoms are most effective against STIs such
as HIV/AIDS and gonorrhea that are spread by contact with the head of the
penis.
Labeling should indicate condoms are less effective against STIs such as
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes that can also be spread by contact
with infected skin that is not covered by the condom.
Labeling should indicate that consumers who believe they have an STI
should contact a health care provider.
Labeling should indicate that for more information on latex condoms or STIs,
consumers should contact a health care provider or public health agency.

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

Identified issues*

Recommended mitigation measures

3. Incorrect or inconsistent use
Labeling should include adequate directions for use and precautions about
diminishing the effectiveness of latex incorrect or inconsistent use.
condoms against the risks of
unintended pregnancy and STI
transmission.

* Additional risks of (1) product deterioration due to aging and (2) allergic reactions to latex have been
specifically addressed in labeling regulations that are discussed in Section III of this guidance.
VI. Labeling Recommendations
This section provides guidance on the labeling of latex condoms grouped according to the issues identified
in Table 1 of Section V of this document. Generally, there are three different levels of packaging for latex
condoms:
• the retail package (includes the principal display panel)
• the primary condom package (individual foil packet)
• the package insert.
The recommendations in this section indicate the level(s) of packaging where the labeling should appear
and provide examples of labeling statements that adequately address the issues identified in Table 1.
Example statements appear in the guidance in italics to make them easier to identify, but FDA is not
recommending italic font be used in actual labeling.
Labeling Recommendations for Latex Condoms
1. Unintended Pregnancy
1a. The principal display panel, the primary condom package (individual foil packet) and the package insert
should identify contraception as one of the principal intended actions of the latex condom (along with
preventing transmission of HIV/AIDS and other STIs, as described in section VI.2a.)2 The following is an
example of an acceptable statement addressing both intended actions:
“Latex condoms are intended to prevent pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.”
1b. The back of the retail package should contain a box entitled Important Information. The first statements
in this box should indicate that latex condom use does not completely eliminate the risk of pregnancy and
highlight the importance of correct and consistent use. (These statements should also include the
information described in Section VI.2b of this guidance.) The following is an example of such statements:
“Latex condoms do not completely eliminate the risks of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections
(STIs).
To get the most protection from a latex condom, use one correctly every time you have sex. Please see
directions for use inside the package.”
1c. The package insert should include a statement that consumers should consult a health care provider if
they have questions about birth control options, particularly because of health reasons for avoiding
pregnancy. The following is an example of such a statement:
"If you have questions about birth control options, particularly because of health reasons for avoiding

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

pregnancy, consult a health care provider."
The package insert should also contain contraceptive effectiveness information comparing the percentage
of women experiencing unintended pregnancy during one year of use of latex condoms with rates
experienced during one year of use of other contraceptive options available in the U.S. including drugs,
devices, and methods of permanent sterilization . This information should at minimum include typical use
rates. This information is intended to enable contraceptive users to compare alternatives and make
appropriate choices. We recommend that you develop your contraceptive effectiveness information from
Hatcher, Trussell, et al. (Hatcher RA, Trussell J, Nelson AL, Cates W, Stewart FH, Kowal D. Contraceptive
Technology: Nineteenth Revised Edition. New York NY: Ardent Media, 2007), or its updates.
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Condoms reduce the overall risk of STI transmission (including transmission of HIV/AIDS and other
STIs):
2a. The principal display panel, the primary condom package (individual foil packet), and the package insert
should identify preventing transmission of HIV/AIDS and of other STIs as a principal intended action of the
latex condom (along with preventing pregnancy, as described in section VI.1a).3 The following is an
example of a statement addressing both uses.
“Latex condoms are intended to prevent pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.”
2b. The back of the retail package should have a box entitled Important Information. The first statements in
this box should indicate that latex condom use does not completely eliminate the risk of STIs and highlight
the importance of correct and consistent use. (These statements should also include the information
described in Section VI.1b of this guidance.) The following is an example of such statements:
“Latex condoms do not completely eliminate the risks of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections
(STIs).
To get the most protection from a latex condom, use one correctly every time you have sex. Please see
directions for use inside the package.”
Degree of protection against different types of STIs varies:
STIs can be transmitted in various ways, including transmission to or from the head of the penis and
transmission by contact with infected skin not covered by the condom. The degree of protection provided by
latex condoms depends on whether the condom provides a barrier against the source of the infection.
2c. To reflect this, the Important Informationbox on the back of the retail package should contain the
following information. The first statement, after the statements addressing the information discussed in
sections VI.1b and 2b should state that there are many STIs, and address the differential effectiveness of
condoms for various STIs. This message should also refer consumers to the location in the labeling of
additional information on STI protection. Another statement should suggest that consumers who believe
they have an STI should contact a health care provider and that for more information on latex condoms or
STIs, consumers should contact a health care provider or public health agency.
The following is an example of an acceptable set of statements addressing 1b, 2b, and 2c:
Important Information
• Latex condoms do not completely eliminate the risks of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections
(STIs).

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

• To get the most protection from a latex condom, use one correctly every time you have sex. Please see
directions for use inside the package.
• There are many STIs. A latex condom can reduce the risk of STI transmission to or from the head of the
penis. However, some STIs can also be spread by other sexual contact. For additional information on
STI protection, please read the information inside the package.
• If you believe you have an STI, contact a health care provider. For more information on condoms or
STIs, contact a health care provider or public health agency.
2d. The package insert of latex condoms should contain a section stating that latex condoms reduce the
risk of STIs by providing a barrier against the source of infection. The section should also explain that latex
condoms are most effective against STIs, such as HIV infection (AIDS) and gonorrhea, that are spread by
contact with the head of the penis. The section should also explain that condoms are less effective against
STIs, such as HPV and herpes, that can also be spread by contact with infected skin not covered by the
condom. The following is an example of an acceptable statement:
“Degree of STI Protection
Latex condoms reduce the risk of transmitting STIs by providing a barrier against the source of the
infection.
• Latex condoms are most effective against STIs such as HIV infection (AIDS) and gonorrhea that are
spread by contact with the head of the penis.
• Latex condoms are less effective against STIs such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes. These
STIs can also be spread by contact with infected skin that is not covered by the condom.”
2e. The package insert should also refer consumers to health care providers if they believe they have an
STI. The following is an example of an acceptable statement:
“If you believe you have an STI, contact a health care provider.”
2f. The package insert should notify the consumer that for additional information on latex condoms and
STIs a health care provider or public health agency should be contacted.
The following is an example of an acceptable statement:
“For more information on latex condoms or STIs, contact a health care provider or a public health agency.”
3. Incorrect or Inconsistent Use
Latex condoms must include adequate directions for use to avoid being misbranded (section 502(f) of the
Act, 21 U.S.C. 352(f); 21 CFR 801.5). Adequate directions for use will also help address the issue of
incorrect or inconsistent use. Precautions should also address this issue. We provide examples of
appropriate directions for use and precautions for latex condoms below. Manufacturers may have additional
directions for use, precautions, or other information that they believe is necessary for proper use of their
products. Such additional information is acceptable as long as it does not conflict with or detract from the
statements recommended in this guidance (or equivalent statements) or any other applicable requirements
(see Section III).
3a. Directions for Use:
The following set of statements is an example of acceptable directions for use for latex condoms:4
Latex condoms are intended to prevent pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

1. Use a new condom for each act of sex.
2. Tear open the package carefully. Do not use fingernails, teeth, or anything that can damage the
condom.
3. Before any sexual contact, place the condom on the head of the erect penis with the rolled side out.
◦ Lesions, pre-ejaculate secretions, semen, vaginal secretions and blood can all transmit infectious
organisms.
4. Unroll or pull the condom all the way to the base of the erect penis. If the condom doesn’t unroll easily,
it may be on backwards, damaged or too old. Throw it away and start over with a new condom.
5. Immediately after ejaculation, hold the rim of the condom in place and withdraw the penis while it is still
erect.
◦ Avoid spilling semen.
6. Dispose of a used condom by wrapping it in tissue and throwing it into the trash. Wash your hands with
soap and water.
Pictorial representations of each direction for use are recommended. Line art attracts and keeps a reader’s
interest and is often remembered longer than words. Properly chosen and placed illustrations reemphasize the text, make it more meaningful, and reduce the burden of details in the text. Graphics should:
• be simple and clearly drawn, without clutter, unneeded background, or extraneous detail
• be placed next to corresponding text
• use cues such as circles or arrows to point out key information
• be clearly labeled
• be easy to understand
• be recognizable to the audience
3b. Precautions
The following set of statements is an example of acceptable precautions regarding condom use:
• Do not reuse latex condoms.
• Store latex condoms in a cool, dry place (below 100ºF) and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
• If the rubber material is sticky or brittle or obviously damaged, do not use the condom.
• If the color is uneven or changed, do not use the condom.
• Make sure there is adequate lubrication. If you add lubricant, use a water-based lubricant.
[Manufacturers may identify one or more examples.] DO NOT USE OIL-BASED LUBRICANTS, such as
those made with petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline ®), mineral oil, vegetable oil, or cold cream, as these
may damage the condom.
VII. Examples of Condom Labeling that Follow the Recommendations in the Guidance
Label statements appearing in italics are those recommended in Section VI of the current guidance. Other
label statements, discussed in Section III of this guidance, appear in regular font. This difference in font
styles is used only to identify the labeling recommended by this guidance as a special control. FDA is not
recommending italic font for the actual label statements provided by manufacturers.

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

In recognition of the variety of ways that manufacturers may configure their labeling to satisfy their statutory
and regulatory labeling obligations as well as incorporate the recommendations of this guidance, this
section does not include a full mock-up of a package insert, but gives only selected examples of
recommended language. Please consult the body of this guidance, 21 CFR Part 801, and the Act, for other
information on the full content of labeling.
Front panels of condom retail package:
Latex condoms are intended to prevent pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.
Caution: This Product Contains Natural Rubber Latex Which May Cause Allergic Reactions.
When used correctly every time you have sex, latex condoms help prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk
of transmitting HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.5
XYZ Brand Latex Condoms
# (net quantity) Latex Condom

Rear panel of condom retail package
Important Information
• Latex condoms do not completely eliminate the risks of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• To get the most protection from a latex condom, use one correctly every time you have sex. Please see
directions for use inside the package.
• There are many STIs. A latex condom can reduce the risk of STI transmission to or from the head of the penis.
However, some STIs can also be spread by other sexual contact. For additional information on STI protection,
please read the information inside the package.
• If you believe you have an STI, contact a health care provider. For more information on condoms or STIs, contact
a health care provider or public health agency.
Distributed by XYZ Corporation
Rockville, Maryland

EXP. Date: Jan 20XX

Primary condom package (individual foil packet):
Front of packet

Back of packet

One XYZ Brand Latex Condom

Before using, please see directions for use inside the
package.

Latex condoms are intended to prevent pregnancy,
HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.
Caution: This Product Contains Natural Rubber
Latex Which May Cause Allergic Reactions.

Distributed by XYZ Corporation
Rockville, Maryland
EXP Date: Jan 20XX

Examples of information to be included in package insert:
Directions for Use

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

Latex condoms are intended to prevent pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections.
1. Use a new condom for each act of sex.
2. Tear open the package carefully. Do not use fingernails, teeth, or anything that can damage the
condom.
3. Before any sexual contact, place the condom on the head of the erect penis with the rolled side out.
◦ Lesions, pre-ejaculate secretions, semen, vaginal secretions and blood can all transmit infectious
organisms.
4. Unroll or pull the condom all the way to the base of the erect penis. If the condom doesn’t unroll easily,
it may be on backwards, damaged or too old. Throw it away and start over with a new condom.
5. Immediately after ejaculation, hold the rim of the condom in place and withdraw the penis while it is still
erect.
◦ Avoid spilling semen.
6. Dispose of a used condom by wrapping it in tissue and throwing it into the trash. Wash your hands with
soap and water.
Package insert (cont.)
Precautions:
• Do not reuse latex condoms.
• Store latex condoms in a cool, dry place (below 100ºF) and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
• If the rubber material is sticky or brittle or obviously damaged, do not use the condom.
• If the color is uneven or changed, do not use the condom.
• Make sure there is adequate lubrication. If you add lubricant, use a water-based lubricant.
[Manufacturers may identify one or more examples.] DO NOT USE OIL-BASED LUBRICANTS, such as
those made with petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline®), mineral oil, vegetable oil, or cold cream, as these may
damage the condom.
Degree of STI Protection
Latex condoms reduce the risk of transmitting STIs by providing a barrier against the source of the
infection.
• Latex condoms are most effective against STIs such as HIV infection (AIDS) and gonorrhea that are
spread by contact with the head of the penis.
• Latex condoms are less effective against STIs such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes. These
STIs can also be spread by contact with infected skin that is not covered by the condom.
If you believe you have an STI, contact a health care provider. For more information on latex condoms or
STIs, contact a health care provider or a public health agency.
VIII. Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
This guidance contains information collection provisions that are subject to review by the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).

Guidance Documents (Medical Devices and Radiation-Emitting Products) > Class II Special Controls Guidanc...

The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 12 hours per response,
including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather the data needed, and
complete and review the information collection. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or
suggestions for reducing this burden to:
FDA PRA Staff,
Office of Operations,
Food and Drug Administration,
PRAStaff@fda.hhs.gov (mailto:PRAStaff@fda.hhs.gov)
This guidance also refers to previously approved collections of information found in FDA regulations. The
collections of information in 21 CFR part 807, subpart E, have been approved under OMB control number
0910-0120; the collections of information in 21 CFR part 820 have been approved under OMB control
number 0910-0073; the collections of information in 21 CFR part 801, including those in 21 CFR 801.435,
referenced in the guidance, have been approved under OMB control number 0910-0485. The latex allergy
caution required by 21 CFR 801.437 and referenced in the guidance does not constitute a "collection of
information" under the PRA. Rather, it is a "public disclosure of information originally supplied by the
Federal government to the recipient for the purpose of disclosure to the public." (5 CFR 1320.3(c)(2)).
An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of
information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control number for this
information collection is 0910-0633 (expires May 31, 2018).

As discussed in section IV of this guidance, male condoms made of natural rubber latex with spermicidal
lubricant (21 CFR 884.5310), which includes lubricant that contains nonoxynol-9 (N-9), are not within the
scope of this guidance.
1

2 In

the package insert, this statement may be included in the directions for use, to satisfy the requirements
of 21 CFR 801.5(a).
In the package insert, this statement may be included in the directions for use, to satisfy the requirements
of 21 CFR 801.5(a).
3

Adequate directions for use must contain a statement of indications for use. (21 CFR 801.5(a)). As
indicated in the example below, the statement recommended under sections 1a and 2a may be
incorporated into the instructions for use to fulfill this requirement.
4

You may add this statement to the “top shelf” of the condom retail package (the front panels also include
the hanger and main box front).
5

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