A hormone-free contraceptive gel that can be injected into the penis has been shown to be effective in rabbits. If the trials are conclusive in humans, it could see the light of day as early as 2018.
The process could frighten more than one, and yet it may be the male contraception of the future. “Ephemeral vasectomy” is under study and reveals surprising results, according to the latest work on the subject published in the journal Basic and Clinical Andrology.
The study evaluates the effectiveness of Vasalgel, a device developed by the American Parsemus Foundation. It is a gel that blocks the passage of sperm. Reversible, hormone-free, Vasalgel is injected into the vas deferens, which connects the testis to the ejaculatory duct.
One product, the polymer, disrupts the membrane of the sperm and makes them unable to move – and therefore, fertilize an egg. The injection is painless.
After successfully testing the gel on baboons, the researchers detail the results of the experiment conducted on rabbits. Of the 15 males who were injected with Vasalgel at two different concentration levels, 12 of them had azoospermia (absence of sperm in the semen) within one month of the injection. Sterilization lasted twelve months in these rabbits. On the other hand, three rabbits died.
“The results of our study were even better than expected,” rejoice the authors of the study. Vasalgel produced a very rapid contraceptive effect which lasted throughout the study due to its excellent hydrogel properties ”.
Cheap
Clinical trials in humans should begin in 2016 for commercialization in 2018, according to the Foundation, which wishes to practice a low-price policy to make this small revolution accessible to all. Vasalgel would thus be marketed at a lower price than all other long-term contraceptives, mainly female.
The “ephemeral vasectomy”, #male contraception of the future?
Posted by Why doctor on Thursday, March 31, 2016
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