Tested for the first time on humans, the male contraceptive pill yct-529-without hormones-has proven to be safe and well tolerated. This advance could finally expand the contraceptive options available for men.
YCT-529: the promise of a non-hormonal male contraceptive pill is becoming clearer
While contraception is still largely based on women’s shoulders, a new male candidate attracts attention. The YCT-529, a molecule developed by Yourchoice Therapeutics, sees a new path: that of a non-hormonal oral contraceptive for men. The first clinical results on humans are encouraging, we learned on July 30, 2025.
A glaring need for solutions for men
With almost one in two pregnancy not planned in the world, the contraceptive offer remains limited, especially on the male side. Today, only two options exist: condoms, unreliable in the long term (13 % failure), and vasectomy, an often irreversible surgical solution. The YCT-529 therefore responds to a crying need for effective, reversible and easy-to-use methods.
An innovative mode of action without hormonal impact
The YCT-529 acts by targeting the Rar-α receiver, essential for the production of sperm. Unlike hormonal solutions, this approach does not change testosterone levels or other sex hormones.
This specificity makes the pill interesting to avoid side effects often observed with hormonal treatments: mood disorders, altered or acne.
A first reassuring clinical phase
In this phase 1A study conducted in the United Kingdom, 16 volunteer men received different unique doses from YCT-529, from 10 to 180 mg, on an empty stomach or after a meal. No serious side effects have been found. Apart from a few headache or benign infections comparable to those occurring in the placebo group, a single participant presented a benign, severity arrhythmia, possibly linked to the medication.
The analyzes have shown that the molecule did not disrupt hormones, inflammation markers, heart function. Even libido and mood have remained stable, according to the psychosexual newspapers held by the participants.
A step towards a reversible and effective treatment
Although the effect of the YCT-529 on the actual production of sperm has not yet been evaluated in humans, tests in mice and primates had demonstrated a reversible inhibition of spermatogenesis. The drug remains in the body for several days, but a daily take is being evaluated in a phase 1B/2A study over 28 to 90 days.
What it means for couples
This development represents a rotating potential in the shared contraceptive load within couples. If confirmed effective and without long-term side effects, the YCT-529 could offer men a serious alternative to current solutions-and women, a more equitable sharing of contraceptive responsibility.
An arrival on the still distant market
We are only at the start: several years of tests are still necessary before a possible marketing. But the first results finally give body to an often pushed promise: that of a male, safe, reversible and non -hormonal contraceptive pill. An advance that many couples have been waiting for a long time.
