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Male hormonal contraception: an update on research progress
Nicole N Grant1, Bradley D Anawalt
1Department of Medicine, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98108, USA.
Treatments in Endocrinology
|April 1, 2005
Summary
New male hormonal contraceptives are being developed, offering reversible options. Research shows testosterone combined with other hormones effectively suppresses sperm production, nearing availability.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- A need exists for novel male contraceptive methods to expand choices for couples.
- Previous research explored hormonal male contraceptives, with testosterone showing promise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development and efficacy of hormonal male contraceptives.
- To assess combination regimens of testosterone with other hormonal agents.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from World Health Organization (WHO) trials on high-dose testosterone.
- Evaluation of smaller randomized trials on combination regimens (testosterone plus GnRH analogs or progestogens).
Main Results:
- High-dose testosterone effectively suppressed spermatogenesis in WHO trials, achieving contraceptive efficacy comparable to female oral contraceptives.
- Combination regimens demonstrated more uniform spermatogenesis suppression than testosterone alone.
- Common side effects included minor weight gain and reduced high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels.
Conclusions:
- Hormonal male contraceptives, particularly combination regimens, show significant potential for development.
- A well-tolerated and effective male hormonal contraceptive may be available in the near future.