US researchers are testing YCT-529, a hormone-free male birth control pill that could redefine family planning.

  • deegeese@sopuli.xyz
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    2 days ago

    An exciting development, but the drug affects the body’s use of Vitamin A so I think they need more studies looking for non-reproductive side effects.

    Night blindness and immune dysfunction are associated with vitamin A deficiency.

    • LaLuzDelSol@lemmy.world
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      2 days ago

      I’m not an expert, but looking at the research paper this is just blocking one one particular vitamin a receptor, so most functions of vitamin A would not be affected. Once concern is that this particular receptor (RAR-alpha) is partially responsible for neutrophil production, although they didn’t notice any changes in animal tests, possibly because those receptors are tucked away inside your bone marrow. Still could be a concern with long term use though…