Results of an Australian study of a male hormonal contraceptive in 55 couples, successfully reported no pregnancies over 12 months.

“This is the first time a reversible male contraceptive that will suppress sperm production reliably and reversibly has been fully tested by couples, “ said Principal Investigator, Professor David Handelsman of the ANZAC Research Institute.

Fifty-five Australian couples had hormone treatment every three or four months to switch off sperm production completely for up to 12 months. During the 12 months they relied on this treatment as the only contraceptive. Previous studies had only checked whether sperm production had been switched off, this study is the first to check how well the contraception actually works in practice.

The study, to be published in the October issue of Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, is proof that a male contraceptive product can be developed using a combination of male hormone and a progestin.

“We used a hormonal implant to replace testosterone given every four months and the progestin DMPA, was injected every three months. This formula produced no pregnancies over the 12 month period,” Professor Handelsman said.

“This shows the way for a final product to be a single injection containing testosterone and a progestin which will easily given by local doctors on a 3-4 monthly basis and still maintain male sexual health,” he said.

“This is a very important study because it was the first to ever fully test an approach which could go forward into practical development. As researchers we have done as much as is possible. It is now over to the companies to develop a convenient and acceptable product. We have proved that it is possible for them to do it, ” Professor Handelsman said.

Chris and Nicole, the couple featured on the VNR, did not fall pregnant during the trial period. However, their son Connor is living proof the procedure is completely reversible - he was conceived not long after the trial finished.

“This is about providing people with choice. When couples are at different stages of their reproductive life – their needs differ. This is designed for couples in stable relationships where they negotiate their contraceptive needs and their desire for family and timing of children,” Professor Handelsman said.

Research and clinical studies led by Professor David Handelsman at the ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW and Professor Rob McLachlan at Prince Henry’s Institute, Melbourne, Victoria. Funding for the study was by the US-based CONRAD (Contraceptive Research and Development), a public sector research and development agency.
MEDIA INFORMATION:

A video news release of interviews with David Handelsman, Rob McLachlan, participants in the trial and diagrams of the research will be sent out via Sky News Australia, Sydney - available via Sydney CITS at 8pm AEST Sat 4th Oct and 9am AEST Sun 5th Oct.

CONTACT DETAILS:
ANZAC Research Institute, (NSW) phone 02 9767 9100
Email enquiries contraception@anzac.edu.au
Web address: www.anzac.edu.au


For further information contact: Ian Muchamore (03) 9594 4049

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