Effects of medroxyprogesterone - acetate and dihydrotestosterone combination in male contraception

Abstract

Effects of weekly intramuscular injections of nonaromatic Dihydrotestosterone (DHT, 2mg/kg body wt.) and Medroxyprogesteroneacetate (MPA, 10mg/kg body wt.) for 60 days were observed with respect to spermiograms, reproductive organ and fertility in adult ma le rats (Rattus rattus norvagicus, Charles Foster strain). Sperm count, sperm motility and viability from the cauda epididymis showed a significant reduction. The sperm acrosomal enzyme such as acrosin and hyaluronidase also reduced leading to loss of thei r function. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels also dropped indicating sperm membrane modification and subsequent correlated to loss of their morphology. As a result of these effects, the treated animals had a p oor fertility rate. Testis spermatogenesis was affected. Cauda epididymis milieu was also altered. However, hematological parameters revealed no changes in blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels. The clinical chemistry data also indicated no alteration in transaminases. Cholesterol, SOD and protein levels in rats treated with MPA + DHT for 60 days. Libido of these animals unchanged as serum testosterone was within normal range. Ninety days after cessation of the treatment, the reproductive funct ion of these animals was comparable to normal animals. Therefore this combination would be useful for induction of functional sterility by suppressing sperm functions in the male strain with proven fertility weighing from 250 -300 g when used for the experiments.