This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. The development of male contraceptives is advancing with several promising options in the pipeline. From transdermal gels to injectable combinations of testosterone and progestins, these methods offer effective, reversible, and potentially long-acting alternatives to current male contraceptive methods. As research continues, these options may soon provide men with more control over their reproductive health.
1. Transdermal Gel-Based Contraceptives
A promising new method involves a transdermal gel containing testosterone and Nestorone®. In a randomized controlled trial, 56% of participants were satisfied with this method, and 51% would recommend it to others. One-third of the men indicated they would use it as their primary contraceptive if available commercially. This method offers a reversible and effective alternative to current male contraceptives like condoms and vasectomy1.
2. Androgen and Progestin Combinations
Combining androgens with progestins has shown significant promise. A study using intramuscular testosterone decanoate and oral etonogestrel demonstrated that nearly all participants achieved severe oligozoospermia, making it a highly effective regimen. This combination works by suppressing gonadotropins, which are crucial for spermatogenesis2.
3. Testosterone Gel and Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA)
Another effective regimen combines testosterone gel with DMPA. In a study, 90% of participants achieved severe oligozoospermia. The addition of a GnRH antagonist did not significantly improve outcomes, suggesting that the simpler combination of testosterone gel and DMPA is sufficient for effective contraception3.
4. Etonogestrel Implants with Depot Testosterone
Etonogestrel implants combined with depot testosterone have also shown effectiveness. In a study, 64% to 75% of participants achieved azoospermia. This method offers the advantage of long-acting contraception with reduced metabolic effects, making it a promising option for those seeking a less frequent dosing schedule4.
5. Testosterone Undecanoate and DMPA Injections
Injectable combinations of testosterone undecanoate and DMPA administered at eight-week intervals have been effective in achieving azoospermia in Chinese men. This regimen was well-tolerated and showed no serious adverse effects, making it a viable option for long-term contraception5.
6. Testosterone Undecanoate with Levonorgestrel
A combination of long-acting testosterone undecanoate and oral levonorgestrel has shown rapid and effective suppression of spermatogenesis. This method achieved higher rates of azoospermia compared to testosterone alone, making it a promising approach for male contraception6 7.
7. GnRH Antagonists with Testosterone
Adding a GnRH antagonist to a high-dose testosterone regimen has been tested to improve the suppression of spermatogenesis. However, studies have shown that this combination does not significantly increase the rate of azoospermia compared to testosterone alone, suggesting limited additional benefit8.
8. Cyproterone Acetate and Testosterone Enanthate
The combination of cyproterone acetate and testosterone enanthate has been highly effective in suppressing spermatogenesis. In a study, all participants receiving this combination achieved azoospermia, making it a highly promising regimen for reversible male contraception10.
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