New trial shows that male birth control gel applied to shoulders works faster than other methods, according to UK News
A new research study has found that a contraceptive gel for men, when applied to their shoulders, is both safe and effective. This gel works faster than other male contraceptive methods, reducing sperm count to the necessary level for contraception within just eight weeks on average.
Researchers from the Contraceptive Development Programme at the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) believe that this fast-acting gel could make birth control options more appealing to men. The product, currently undergoing trials, combines testosterone and a synthetic hormone called Nestorone to achieve the desired effect without affecting libido or causing side effects.
Participants in the trial applied a teaspoon of the gel on each shoulder blade daily, with promising results. One participant, Logan Whitehead, shared his positive experience with the gel, likening it to taking a daily pill in terms of simplicity.
The researchers are now focused on assessing the gel’s effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, its safety, user acceptability, and the time it takes for fertility to return after discontinuing use. However, funding for the necessary stage three trials to bring this product to market remains a challenge.
Dr. Brian Nguyen, a gynecologist involved in the gel trial, emphasized the need for a major pharmaceutical company to support the research. While many couples currently rely on female birth control methods, there is a growing demand for male options, indicating potential for the gel’s success if brought to market. Dr. Nguyen remains optimistic about the timeline for the gel’s availability, suggesting it may be sooner than the predicted five to ten years.
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For more information on male contraceptive options, check out these articles: Male pill is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and British men first in the world to try new hormone-free male pill.
