Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Jul 24: In a groundbreaking development in the field of reproductive health, scientists have announced successful results from the first human trial of a hormone-free male contraceptive pill named YCT-529. Developed through a collaboration between the University of Minnesota, Columbia University, and biotech firm YourChoice Therapeutics, the pill marks a new chapter in gender-inclusive birth control.

According to findings published in Communications Medicine on July 22, the early-stage clinical trial involved 16 men aged between 32 and 59, all of whom had previously undergone vasectomies. This precaution ensured that no unintended pregnancies occurred during the study.

The primary objective of this initial trial was to examine the drug’s safety and how it behaves in the body — not yet its effectiveness in preventing pregnancies. Remarkably, no serious side effects were reported. Researchers specifically monitored for hormonal disruptions, mood changes, and any negative impact on sexual health — but no red flags emerged.

Unlike most female contraceptives, YCT-529 is hormone-free. It works by blocking a protein known as retinoic acid receptor alpha, a key player in sperm production. By disabling this protein, the pill halts sperm creation — akin to pulling a plug on the reproductive system. Importantly, animal trials suggest this effect is reversible.

Before human testing, the drug underwent successful trials on mice and nonhuman primates. In mice, it was 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, with fertility restored within 4 to 6 weeks after discontinuation. In primates, sperm count dropped sharply within two weeks of use and returned to normal 10 to 15 weeks after stopping the medication.

The 16 male volunteers were divided into groups — some received a placebo, others were given low or high doses of YCT-529 (up to 180 mg daily). Participants also took the pill in both fasting and fed states to assess absorption levels. In all cases, the drug reached the desired concentration in the bloodstream, leading researchers to believe that the future daily dosage will likely be 180 mg.

While larger trials are required to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness, researchers and experts have hailed this as a “revolutionary step” towards achieving greater gender balance in contraceptive responsibility.

With no hormones involved and early signs of effectiveness and reversibility, YCT-529 could soon provide men with a reliable and safe birth control option, long considered the missing piece in the family planning puzzle.