Male Infertility Medication

Updated: Jun 05, 2020
  • Author: Chirag N Dave, MD; Chief Editor: Edward David Kim, MD, FACS  more...
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Medication

Medication Summary

The goal of pharmacotherapy is to improve sperm count.

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Estrogen receptor blockers

Class Summary

These agents cause increased hypothalamic secretion of GnRH owing to blockage of estrogen inhibition.

Clomiphene (Clomid, Serophene)

Stimulates release of pituitary gonadotropins.

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Dopamine antagonists

Class Summary

These agents are ergot derivatives and dopamine receptor agonists. They act on postsynaptic dopamine receptors while causing no effect on other anterior pituitary functions. Mimic dopamine action of inhibition of prolactin release.

Bromocriptine (Parlodel)

Semisynthetic ergot alkaloid derivative with strong dopamine D2-receptor agonist and partial dopamine D1-receptor effects. Therapeutic range is usually 5-7.5 mg/d. Administer with meals to decrease nausea.

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Gonadotropins

Class Summary

These agents stimulate production of gonadal steroid hormones.

Menotropins (Pergonal, Repronex)

Stimulate spermatogenesis. Contain 75 IU of FSH and 75 IU of LH per vial.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (Novarel, Profasi, Pregnyl)

Polypeptide hormone produced by the human placenta. Composed of an alpha and beta subunit. Alpha is identical to LH and FSH. Effects are similar to that of LH (stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone). Has other uses and only use in testicular function is described here.

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