Esterilsol™/Zeuterin™:
Injectable Sterilization for Male Dogs

Esterilsol (as it is known outside of the U.S.) or Zeuterin (as it is known in the U.S.) is a product developed to chemically sterilize male dogs. This method of sterilization is also called "zinc neutering". The formulation was initially introduced in the U.S. under the name Neutersol, and is the first permanent non-surgical sterilant to receive regulatory approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The formulation is now being marketed under the names Esterilsol and Zeuterin by Ark Sciences, LLC. Esterilsol/Zeuterin is the chemical compound zinc gluconate neutralized by arginine. It provides permanent sterility in a single treatment. Dogs treated with Esterilsol/Zeuterin retain their testicles (though testicles do change in size and texture). For many animal shelters and sterilization clinics, this approach will cost less and require less time and infrastructure than castration, helping these organizations reach further with limited resources.

This formulation currently has regulatory approval in the U.S., Mexico, Colombia, Bolivia, and Panama.  Ark Sciences is preparing for the U.S. launch.  Originally expected in 2012, a December 21st update describes the reason for a delay, possibly to mid 2013.  Read details about the delay provided by Ark Sciences HERE.

Ark Sciences states that they also plan to seek regulatory approval in other countries. Currently, Esterilsol may be able to be used with special permission on a limited basis in some countries in which it does not have regulatory approval. Esterilsol/Zeuterin can make it possible to sterilize male dogs that would otherwise be contributing to homeless pet populations.

ACC&D’s goal is to help organizations explore how Esterilsol/Zeuterin may help them sterilize more dogs and/or conserve their limited resources, and, where it is a good fit, to help organizations utilize it effectively. Please use the links below to learn more. The Product Profile and Position Paper provides a thorough overview and is a great place to start. You are also welcome to contact us with questions at info@acc-d.org.

ACC&D-produced Materials
Product Profile and Position Paper on Esterilsol
Please also see our Esterilsol Grants page

Technical Information and other Publications
Freedom of Information Summary (results of studies submitted to the FDA for regulatory review)
Injectable sterilant for dogs returning to market
-Edie Lau, VIN News Service
Comparison of intratesticular injection of zinc gluconate versus surgical castration to sterilize male dogs
-Levy et al, published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research
Neutersol: A Clinical Perspective (abstract of presentation at the 2009 North American Veterinary Conference)
- James Weedon, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
 

Information from Ark Sciences
Ark Sciences website for Esterilsol

Proceedings from related sessions at ACC&D's 4th International Symposium (2010)
(Click here for full symposium proceedings)
Chemical Sterilization: Understanding Opportunities and Challenges- Emma Clifford (PowerPoint presentation)
Chemical Sterilization: Understanding Opportunities and Challenges- Dr. Julie Levy (PowerPoint presentation)
Chemical Sterilization: Understanding Opportunities and Challenges- Dr. Enid Stiles (PowerPoint presentation)
Chemical Sterilization: Understanding Opportunities and Challenges- Panel Discussion (video)

Proceedings from related sessions at ACC&D’s 3rd International Symposium (2006)
(Click here for full symposium proceedings)
Session Overview – Dr. Julie Levy
Case Study: Outreach in the U.S. and Mexico, The Face of Success – Sean Hawkins
Report on Field Use in 10,000 Dogs in Mexico – Dr. Carlos Esquivel