Advances in male hormonal contraception
Meriggiola, M.C.; Pelusi, G.
Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs 15(4): 389-397
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1744-7658 PMID: 16548788 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.15.4.389Document Number: 625674
There is a need to develop new contraceptives, particularly for men whose current choices are suboptimal in terms of effectiveness and ease of reversibility. Recent surveys indicate that men and their partners would be willing to rely on male hormonal contraceptives. Male hormonal contraception works by reversibly suppressing sperm production. Testosterone in combination with progestins or gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists induces profound and consistent sperm suppression. Asian men are more susceptible to the suppressive effects of testosterone given alone, even if they may benefit from the addition of an adjunctive agent to obtain optimal contraceptive protection. The aim of this review is to comment on the recent relevant achievements in the field.