Antioxidants and Male Infertility: Interpreting Meta‐Analytical Evidence to the Skeptics and Discerning Clinicians
Elevated levels of oxidative stress (OS) in semen are linked to sperm dysfunction, DNA damage, and reduced male fertility, leading to impaired sperm parameters. Antioxidants (AOXs) are widely available, relatively inexpensive, and more accessible compared to other medical and surgical treatments for male infertility. However, there is significant debate in the literature regarding their efficacy, and a clear consensus has yet to be reached. This review aims to evaluate the use of AOX in male infertility by analyzing the latest meta‐analytical evidence and presenting case scenarios. Our review found evidence‐based consensus demonstrating significant improvements in pregnancy rates and sperm parameters following AOX treatment. However, a careful clinical workup and additional randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are necessary to support AOX treatment in infertile men.
Authors
- Mohamed Arafa (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0107-8857)
- Ashok Agarwal (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0585-1026)
- Selahi̇tti̇n Çayan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4784-2208)
- Rossella Cannarella (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4599-8487)
Institutions
- Cleveland Clinic (US)
- Cairo University (EG)
- University of Catania (IT)
- Mersin Üniversitesi (TR)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Andrologia
- Published
- 2025-01-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1155/and/4666847
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Effects and risks of endocrine disrupting chemicals
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 1.20