Antidepressant-associated changes in semen parameters

Abstract

We describe 2 cases of patients referred for evaluation of male infertility who had antidepressant medication-associated changes in sperm motility and/or concentration. The physical examination and endocrinologic study findings were unremarkable in each case. Analysis of the initial semen specimens revealed oligospermia, impaired motility, and abnormal morphology in each patient while they were taking serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Repeat semen analyses performed 1 to 2 months after discontinuation of the antidepressants demonstrated marked improvements in sperm concentration and motility. Additional assessment of the potential impact of antidepressant medications on male fertility is warranted.