Found

Developing the “male IUD” with Kevin Eisenfrats from Contraline

Episode Summary

Clinical trials are ongoing for the first long-lasting, reversible male birth control which is the first innovation in male birth control since the vasectomy hit the scene in 1897. This week’s Found guest is Kevin Eisenfrats, the co-founder and CEO of Contraline, a biotech company developing innovative methods to use hydrogel as a contraceptive. Contraline’s first product, ADAM, is what some are calling the first male IUD. The company will begin clinical trials in the U.S. very soon.

Episode Notes

Clinical trials are ongoing for the first long-lasting, reversible male birth control which is the first innovation in male birth control since the vasectomy hit the scene in 1897. This week’s Found guest is Kevin Eisenfrats, the co-founder and CEO of Contraline, a biotech company developing innovative methods to use hydrogel as a contraceptive. Contraline’s first product, ADAM, is what some are calling the first male IUD. The company will begin clinical trials in the U.S. very soon.

In this conversation they cover:

• The process of fundraising when you’re creating a completely new category
• Why the overturning of Roe V. Wade has led to increased interest in ADAM by men in the US
• The future of Contraline and other innovations that use hydrogels

(0:00) Introduction

(2:26) The challenges to male birth control

(6:53) Why hydrogel works

(9:35) Developing ADAM

(15:08) Cultural reaction to ADAM

(20:18) Entrepreneurship in medicine

(22:39) FDA approval process

(28:09) What’s next for Contraline

(34:23) Host conversation