Inhibition of Spermatogenesis with Monthly Injections of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate and Low Dose Testosterone Enanthate

The use of the combination of a gestagen medroxyprogesterone acetate and an androgen testosterone enantate as a method for male contraception has been tried. For all parameters (sperm count and hormonal levels) examined followup for 1 year after discontinuation is also discussed. 2 treatment schedules were used with 10 subjects in each. The treatment was given at monthly injections the gestagen at 2 dose levels 150 and 300 mg/month and the androgen at 250 mg/month. No substantial difference was observed between the 2 treatment schedules. Azoospermia was achieved for 12 of the subjects within 4 months. Results indicated that initial high doses did not accelerate the sperm suppression effect. Minimal side effects were reported; no patient experienced loss of libido or other behavior alterations. In most cases hormonal levels returned to normal within 1 year of treatment discontinuation. After discontinuation the sperm count increased gradually after 2-3 months. This treatment schedule is not adequate for purposes of contraception. It is suggested that different avenues in male contraception be explored. (Authors modified)