The association of medications and supplements with human male reproductive health: a systematic review

Fertil Steril. 2023 Dec;120(6):1112-1137. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.10.021. Epub 2023 Oct 26.

Abstract

Some medications used to treat comorbidities and conditions in reproductive-aged individuals could have a negative impact on fertility. This may occur through hormonal disruption, toxicity to germ cells and spermatozoa, functional impact on the sperm, teratogenicity potential, or ejaculatory abnormalities. Having knowledge of these potential interactions between medications and reproductive potential is important for clinicians to be aware of and guide the patient, along with their treating clinicians, to reproductively favorable alternatives when available. This review aims to summarize the state of the literature regarding medication interactions with human male reproduction using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System of medications.

Keywords: Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System; Sperm; male fertility; male reproduction; medications.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Fertility
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Reproduction
  • Reproductive Health*
  • Semen*
  • Spermatozoa