Deleterious effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment on semen parameters in patients with lifelong premature ejaculation

Int J Impot Res. 2012 Sep;24(5):171-3. doi: 10.1038/ijir.2012.12. Epub 2012 May 10.

Abstract

Premature ejaculation (PE), the most common sexual dysfunctions in men, is characterized by loss or absence of ejaculatory control. PE can be classified as either a lifelong or acquired condition. Although the prevalence of lifelong PE is rather low in the general male population, recent studies demonstrated that the patients who seek treatment for their rapid ejaculation mostly report lifelong PE. Although no drug for PE has been approved by regulatory bodies, chronic selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) proved to be effective in treating lifelong PE. Despite the rising use and known effects of antidepressants on ejaculation, only a few reports have evaluated the impact of these drugs on the male fertility. Thus, the aim of this review is to evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of SSRIs on semen parameters of patients with lifelong PE as well as to assess the safety of this treatment among sexually active couples who desire to have a child.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Survival / drug effects
  • DNA / analysis
  • DNA / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Premature Ejaculation / drug therapy*
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Semen / drug effects
  • Sperm Motility / drug effects
  • Spermatogenesis / drug effects
  • Spermatozoa / chemistry
  • Spermatozoa / drug effects
  • Spermatozoa / physiology

Substances

  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • DNA