Finasteride Use in the Male Infertility Population: Effects on Semen and Hormone Parameters

September 2013 in “ Fertility and Sterility ”

Mary K. Samplaski, Kirk C. Lo, Ethan D. Grober, Keith Jarvi

finasteride semen parameters hormone parameters infertility oligospermia azoospermia sperm count Propecia

Studysummary This study found that discontinuing finasteride led to a significant increase in sperm counts for most men with reduced fertility, though hormone levels and other semen parameters remained unchanged.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This document is a summary of a study that looked at the effects of finasteride on semen and hormone parameters in infertile men. The study found that low-dose finasteride negatively affects fertility in some men, particularly those with preexisting conditions related to infertility. The discontinuation of finasteride treatment resulted in a significant increase in sperm count, with the most notable increase seen in men with severe oligospermia at initial assessment. The study suggests that finasteride should be discontinued in infertile men with oligospermia or azoospermia, even at low doses, and caution should be exercised when these drugs are given to men of reproductive age who desire fertility.

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Research cited in this study

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