Male Contraception: Clinical Assessment of Chronic Administration of Testosterone Enanthate

Abstract

Testosterone enanthate (TE) was administered im to 39 normal adult men (age 21–39) to assess its efficacy as a suppressor of spermatogeneis and to determine possible adverse effects. 17 subject (Group A) received TE (200 mg/week) for 16 to 20 weeks. 16/17 lowered sperm counts (SC) to < 5 million/cc; 11/17 to < 300 000; and 10/17 became azoospermic. Group B received TE (200 mg/weeks); in 10/22 SC were < 5 million/cc at 16 weeks; 9/22 to < 300 000; and 5/22 azoospermic; when those with SC > 5 million/cc were switched to weekly treatment (additional 3–16 weeks), 9/12 lowered SC to < 5 million/cc. Overall, 19/22 of Group B attained this level. Serum LH and FSH were decreased on both regimens. These effects were dose‐related. Mean serum testosterone was elevated above control (64%) in Group A, but remained at basal levels 2 weeks after TE injection in Group B. Decreasing the frequency of TE (3 or 4 weeks) resulted in a rebound of FSH and LH above baseline and increased SC. After discontinuing treatment, sperm counts and hormonal measurements returned to normal. Modest increase in body weight, red cell mass, oiliness of skin and mild acne were seen in some subjects. Liver function tests, glucose tolerance, blood lipids and renal function were unchanged.