A breakthrough in male birth control has been made with the successful completion of a phase 1 clinical trial for YCT-529, a pill that blocks vitamin A metabolite to prevent sperm production without hormones. The daily pill was well-tolerated by 16 vasectomised men with no serious side effects reported.
The optimal dosage is estimated at 180mg, but further studies are needed to confirm this. The trial did not assess the pill’s efficacy in reducing sperm and preventing pregnancy. However, animal studies have shown that fertility returns within weeks after stopping the drug.
This hormone-free alternative could provide a safe and reversible option for men seeking birth control. “A safe and effective male pill will provide more options to couples for birth control,” said University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy professor Gunda Georg. “It will allow a more equitable sharing of responsibility for family planning and provide reproductive autonomy for men.”
The pill is currently in phase 2 clinical trials, with several years likely before it becomes available on the market if approved. Other options in development include hormonal gels and hydrogel implants.
Source: https://www.ndtv.com/feature/breakthrough-in-male-birth-control-as-hormone-free-pill-passes-human-safety-test-8933914