World First Male Contraceptive Injection Could Be Available In 6 Months

World First Male Contraceptive Injection Could Be Available In 6 Months

The world’s first contraceptive injection for men could be available for consumer use within six months, after Indian scientists announced that clinical trials have been completed on the drug.

The contraceptive, which remains effective for 13 years before it loses potency, has been sent to the national Drug Controller General of India for final approval.

“The product is ready, with only regulatory approvals pending with the Drugs Controller,” said Dr RS Sharma, senior scientist with Indian Council of Medical Research, in a comment to the Hindustan Times.

“The trials are over, including extended, phase 3 clinical trials for which 303 candidates were recruited with 97.3% success rate and no reported side-effects. The product can safely be called the world’s first male contraceptive.”

The contraceptive works via an injection to a sperm-containing tube near the testicles.
It contains a polymer called Steryene Maleic Anhydride developed in the 1970s that inhibits sperm production.

If approved, the injection will be the first male contraceptive offered to consumers in the world, although it will be marketed as a long-term alternative to a vasectomy, rather than a short-term option like the implant or coil that are on offer to women.