Medical Drugs Impairing Fertility

Abstract

SummaryThe human being is one of the least fertile among the mammals, despite the alarming scene of global overpopulation. Human fertility is certainly on the decline. There are several historical, demographic, geographic, social, genetic and environmental factors contributing to the decline. Medical drugs do contribute to a decline in the fertility of some couples. Iatrogenic causes of medical illness are increasing the world over. The chapter gives an overview of medical drugs impairing fertility in men and women. Drugs may impair male fertility by interfering with spermatogenesis, sperm motility, or by interfering with the fertilising capacity of spermatozoa. Female fertility may be compromised by impairing oogenesis, ovulation, or through the suppression of ovarian function. The incidence of acid peptic disease and hypertension is increasing globally, even amongst young men and women. Drugs used to treat these conditions impair sexual function and fertility. Several drugs used to treat connective tissue diseases affect gonadal function. Many childhood/early adulthood malignancies are either treatable or curable today. Chemotherapeutic agents, while very effective in managing malignancies, often lead to impairment of fertility. Use, and abuse, of antibiotics and antibacterials have increased phenomenally. These drugs can impair fertility, albeit temporarily. Several drugs used to treat mental illness impair sexual function and fertility. Fertility impaired by medical drugs is often reversible except when associated with antimitotic drugs. Judicious use of drugs, and use of alternate drugs if necessary, would help in the restoration of sexual function and fertility in many couples.