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World Journal of Urology

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01-06-2019 | Fertility | Topic Paper

Optimizing male fertility: oxidative stress and the use of antioxidants

Authors: Joao Paulo Cardoso, Marcello Cocuzza, Dean Elterman

Published in: World Journal of Urology | Issue 6/2019

Abstract

Purpose

Management of male infertility is always a difficult task, with pathophysiology and available treatments often poorly understood. The purpose of this review was to summarize current evidence regarding the use of protective agents against reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as antioxidants that may be useful in the treatment of male factor infertility.

Methods

For this publication, a search of studies concerning oxidative stress, male infertility and antioxidant therapy was performed using the search engines ScienceDirect, OVID, PubMed and MEDLINE. Articles published in languages other than English were not considered.

Results

An interest in the physiologic and pathologic effects of ROS has grown. Nevertheless, use of antioxidants is challenging, considering the balance between physiological ROS activity and detrimental oxidative stress level. Several studies have shown positive outcomes in terms of semen parameters, with others having failed to do so. Available evidence is still limited in pregnancy and live birth rates.

Conclusions

Protective agents against ROS, such as antioxidants, may have positive effects on semen parameters in some patients, although a widespread indication is still restricted by practical aspects, including unknown physiological levels of ROS and controversy regarding different concentrations and combinations of drugs.

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Title: Optimizing male fertility: oxidative stress and the use of antioxidants
Authors: Joao Paulo Cardoso
Marcello Cocuzza
Dean Elterman
Publication date: 01-06-2019
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Fertility
Infertility
Varicocele
Infertility
Published in: World Journal of Urology / Issue 6/2019
Print ISSN: 0724-4983
Electronic ISSN: 1433-8726
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00345-019-02656-3

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Optimizing male fertility: oxidative stress and the use of antioxidants

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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