Scientists Have Developed Birth Control Pill for Men

Nov. 28, 2006 — -- A recent survey has found that 55 percent of men would be willing to use a male contraceptive pill.

Thanks to British scientists who are developing just that, the claims of these men could soon be put to the test.

London scientists believe they may have developed a male contraceptive in the form of a pill.

The contraception is a combination of two medicines already in use. One treats high blood pressure and the other is used for schizophrenia.

Together, they temporarily block the body from releasing sperm during sex with no change in satisfaction and no hormones.

According to researchers, a man would take the pill and then wait several hours for it to take effect.

The effect would last for 24 hours.

ABC News asked some women what they thought, and their reactions were split.

"I think male birth control is a fabulous idea! I mean, I hate having the onus on us," said one.

Another was more cautious. "If my partner was using it, I would probably continue to use birth control as well," she said.

Some doctors believe a "male pill" sounds too good to be true.

"One, the treatment themselves may not be 100 percent effective in all men, and two, men aren't completely reliable," said Dr. David Katz, ABC News medical contributor.

"If you forget to take it, then obviously it can't work," Katz said.

Researchers say the pill won't be on the market for four years or five years.