Finasteride and its effects on sperm and fertility. Dr Asi Peretz explains. #finasteride #sperm

Summary

This video discusses the effects of finasteride on male fertility, focusing on three key sperm characteristics: sperm count, motility, and morphology. Based on several studies, the video explains that low doses of finasteride (such as those used for hair loss) generally have no significant impact on sperm or fertility in healthy young men. However, high doses or use in men with pre-existing fertility issues may cause temporary reductions, which reverse after discontinuation. The video concludes that while finasteride has minimal effects on fertility, testosterone and anabolic steroids are much more detrimental to male fertility.

Takeaways

• 😀 Male fertility depends on three main sperm characteristics: sperm count, motility, and morphology.
• 😀 Finasteride may reduce sperm count, motility, and morphology, but it does not make men infertile in most cases.
• 😀 A study found that 5% of men on finasteride experienced a drop in sperm count to the oligozoospermia range, but this was reversible after stopping the medication.
• 😀 Serum testosterone was found to increase by about 25% in men taking finasteride.
• 😀 A study on 1mg finasteride (used for hair loss) showed no negative impact on sperm production in healthy men.
• 😀 For men with existing fertility issues, low-dose finasteride worsened symptoms, but the effects reversed after discontinuation of the drug.
• 😀 Low doses of finasteride (1mg) have minimal to no impact on sperm count and fertility in healthy young men.
• 😀 High doses of finasteride or dutasteride may have negative effects on fertility, but the impact is usually temporary and reversible after stopping the medication.
• 😀 If you are concerned about fertility, it’s recommended to get a semen analysis, especially if you have a history of fertility problems.
• 😀 Testosterone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids are more detrimental to male fertility than finasteride and should be avoided if you haven't had children yet.

Q & A

What are the three main characteristics of male fertility?

Male fertility depends on sperm count (how many sperm there are), sperm motility (how well sperm swim), and sperm morphology (how well sperm are built, including genetic integrity).

What does the study by John K. Emery conclude about finasteride's effects on sperm and fertility?

The study found that while finasteride reduced ejaculate volume, total sperm count, and sperm motility, it did not push the participants into the infertile range. Only 5% of individuals experienced a reduction to a low sperm count, but after discontinuing the medication, their sperm count returned to baseline.

What impact did finasteride have on serum testosterone levels according to the study by John K. Emery?

The study showed that serum testosterone levels increased by about 25% in men taking finasteride.

Did the study by JW Overstreet show any effect of low-dose finasteride on spermatogenesis?

No, the study by JW Overstreet found that there was no effect on spermatogenesis in men taking low-dose finasteride (1 mg) for up to 48 weeks.

What does the retrospective study on men with fertility issues reveal about the effects of finasteride?

The retrospective study showed that men with pre-existing fertility problems experienced a worsening of their symptoms with low-dose finasteride. However, this effect was reversed once finasteride was discontinued, and sperm parameters improved after 24 weeks.

What recommendation is given for men with previous fertility problems regarding the use of finasteride?

The recommendation is to avoid taking finasteride if you have had fertility problems or suspect you might have them, at least until you've had children.

How likely is finasteride to affect fertility in healthy young men?

For healthy young men, low doses of finasteride are unlikely to negatively affect sperm or fertility. If issues do occur, stopping the medication usually leads to a return to normal baseline sperm parameters.

What is the role of testosterone in fertility, and how does it relate to finasteride?

Testosterone plays a more significant role in fertility and spermatogenesis compared to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Finasteride inhibits DHT, but it does not play as large a role in fertility as testosterone does.

Why is it important to avoid substances like testosterone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids for male fertility?

Testosterone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids can severely impact male fertility, so they should be avoided by men who have not yet had children or plan to have a family.

Can a semen analysis help if a man is concerned about his fertility while on finasteride?

Yes, a semen analysis can help determine whether there are any issues with fertility. However, it's not necessary for everyone; it may be worth considering if you're concerned about potential fertility problems.