Fertility drugs for men

Some men may need to undergo fertility treatment with certain drugs in order to start producing healthy sperm. It may sound surprisingly but the same hormones are in charge of certain reproductive processes in the body in both genders. This explains why fertility drugs prescribed for women may also be highly beneficial for men who are dealing with some fertility issues.

These drugs are not officially accepted to be a part of fertility treatment for men, even though they are prescribed. Also, the success of the treatment is not the same as it is in women who undergo treatment with the same medications.

Fertility Drugs for Men - Mechanism of Action

As far as women are concerned, they are frequently prescribed clomiphene, human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) or human Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Sometimes these are combined. These drugs are also a part of the treatment for primary hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in men. This medical condition is actually a consequence of hormonal imbalance that affects the pituitary gland or hypothalamus and reflects through one's inability to produce sperm of good quality. There are several more characteristics of the disease which can also be brought under control with the previously mentioned medications.

By stimulating the testicles of a man, these drugs assist in production of more sperm. The sperm is more healthier as well.

Who is Suitable Candidate for This Treatment?

Men suffering from a hormonal imbalance associated with the pituitary gland and/or hypothalamus which affects sperm count (low sperm count) are suitable for this treatment. Furthermore, men with poor sperm quality and motion may also benefit from these fertility drugs even though they have no hormonal imbalance. Doctors choose patients who can benefit from such treatment.

Clomiphene is supposed to be taken for 3-6 months, a pill each day, while injectable hormones are administered 3 times per week, for 6 months. Treatment adjustments are also possible.

Fertility Drugs for Men - Side Effects

In the majority of cases patients complain about blurred vision, enlarged and tender breasts and weight gain. One of rare complications associated with prolonged intake of clomiphene is liver damage.

Many times treatment is successful enough and may increase sperm count to desirable level. Unfortunately, not all men achieve satisfactory results. Treatment failure is also reported. However, this should not cause any worry because there are plenty more fertility treatments available.

Finally, before opting for this treatment one should check whether the insurance policy covers these drugs for men.