A non-hormonal male birth control pill known as YCT-529 has successfully passed its first human safety trial, marking a major step toward expanding contraceptive options for men.

The experimental pill works by blocking a vitamin A metabolite in the testes a process essential for sperm production. By interrupting this pathway, YCT-529 temporarily restricts sperm development without altering testosterone levels.

In the Phase 1a clinical trial, 16 healthy male volunteers received single doses of the drug. Researchers reported no serious adverse events, no impact on testosterone or libido, and strong bioavailability meaning the body absorbed the drug effectively.

The positive safety results have cleared the way for more advanced trials. A 28-day and 90-day repeat-dose Phase 1b/2a study is already underway to further evaluate safety and effectiveness. If subsequent trials prove successful, experts suggest the pill could become commercially available before the end of the decade.

Developed through a collaboration between YourChoice Therapeutics and Columbia University, YCT-529 has already shown promising results in preclinical animal studies, where it demonstrated 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancies in mice.

If ultimately approved, YCT-529 could represent a significant shift in reproductive health by offering men a reliable, reversible and non-hormonal contraceptive option potentially balancing responsibility for family planning more evenly between partners.