Esterilsol 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 name Esterilsol by a different company: Ark Sciences, LLC. Esterilsol is the chemical compound zinc gluconate neutralized by arginine. I provides permanent sterility in a single treatment. Dogs treated with Esterilsol retain their testicles (though testicles do change in size and texture). For many animal shelters and sterilization clinics, this approach may cost less and require less time and infrastructure than castration, helping these organizations reach further with limited resources. 

Esterilsol currently has regulatory approval in the U.S., Mexico, Colombia, Bolivia and Panama. It is commercially available in Mexico, Colombia, and Bolivia. Ark Sciences is preparing for the U.S. launch, which is anticipated for the second quarter of 2012. Ark Sciences states that they also plan to seek regulatory approval in other countries. Currently, Esterilsol may be able to be used on a limited basis in some countries in which it does not have regulatory approval with special permission. Esterilsol 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 or "zinc neutering" 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 about Esterilsol. 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.

Proceedings from EsterilSol-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

Technical Information and other Publications
Freedom of Information Summary
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