Scots in 'male pill' trials

The male pill could end use of other contraceptives

Men in Scotland are taking part in tests of a new male contraceptive which they cannot forget to take.

Up to 40 Scots have volunteered for the trials, which involves implanting hormones under their skin.

Scientists at Edinburgh University are taking part in a European-wide study which may see a reliable male contraceptive on the market within five years.

The tests on a product developed by Dutch pharmaceutical company Organon are also taking place on 80 men in the USA.

The implant uses etongestrel, a form of progesterone used to block sperm production.

The same hormone is currently being used in the male pill - a contraceptive in tablet form which is already under trial.

Injections required

With both systems, men will need injections of testosterone every four or six weeks to maintain their sex drive.

The company, which already makes the female implant Implanon, said it would be testing the safety of the implant.

Dr Richard Anderson, from Edinburgh University's Centre for Reproductive Biology said: "This will finally prove whether a male pill will actually become a reality in the next five or six years."

Driek Vergouwen, managing director of Organon, said this latest trial was part of the company's drive to find new contraceptive methods for both men and women.

"When couples are looking for that particular method of contraception that is suitable for them, a wide choice should be available to them.

"The possibility of a male pill will add to the variety of contraceptive methods already available to men and women around the world."