Non-hormonal implants in men tested as reversible alternative to vasectomies

An implantable, non-hormonal male contraceptive has been shown in trials to last for at least two years.

- Nicola Davis

The contraceptive, known as Adam, is a water-soluble hydrogel that is implanted in the sperm ducts, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The company behind the product, Contraline, says the approach offers a reversible alternative to condoms and vasectomies, with the hydrogel designed to break down in the body after a set period of time, restoring fertility.

Contraline has released details of its phase 1 clinical trial, revealing that Adam can block the release of sperm for 24 months, with no sperm detected in the semen of the two participants who have so far reached this time point in the trial. In addition, it said no serious adverse events had been recorded.

"This is really exciting because our goal since day one has been to create a two-year-long male contraceptive - that is what the demand is for: a two-year-long, temporary or reversible male birth control. And we have the first data to show that that's possible," said Kevin Eisenfrats, the founder and chief executive of Contraline.