TLDR Some common medications may harm male fertility by affecting hormones, sperm production, and sexual function.
The review discusses the potential negative effects of commonly prescribed medications on male fertility. It notes that many young men take medications for chronic conditions like high blood pressure, psychiatric illness, and pain management, and usage increases with age. These medications can affect fertility by changing hormone secretion, impairing testosterone secretion, sperm production, and ejaculation. Some drugs can also increase erectile dysfunction and decrease libido. The review calls for more research in this area and suggests that doctors should consider these potential effects when prescribing medications.
Cited in this study
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15 citations
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July 2019 in “Journal of Biological Inorganic Chemistry” Finasteride helps prevent kidney stones, but side effects need more research.
39 citations
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January 2019 in “The World Journal of Men's Health” Testosterone replacement therapy can prevent men from fathering children and should not be used by those wanting to stay fertile.
77 citations
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June 2015 in “Nature Reviews Urology” Some common medications can harm male fertility, but many effects can be reversed.
36 citations
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May 2011 in “Fertility and Sterility” Finasteride use may cause sperm damage and infertility, stopping it can improve sperm health.
38 citations
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April 2011 in “Fertility and Sterility” Finasteride may cause male infertility, stopping it can help.
195 citations
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May 2007 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Dutasteride and finasteride may reduce sperm count and volume but don't affect movement or shape; effects are reversible after stopping.
237 citations
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December 2001 in “Urology” Blocking the enzyme 5α-reductase can shrink the prostate and help treat enlarged prostate issues.
