Altered sexual and reproductive functions in epileptic men taking carbamazepine.

ABSTRACT Introduction Epileptic men may experience hormonal changes that may alter semen quality and sexual function. Alterations in male sexual and reproductive parameters may also be due to treatment with antiepileptic drugs to control seizures. Aims To evaluate serum hormone concentrations, semen quality, the frequency of sexual intercourse (FSI), and erectile function in men with epileptic seizures controlled by carbamazepine (CBZ). Main Outcome Measures The five‐question form of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5), and semi‐structured questionnaire. Methods One hundred and eighteen men, aged 18–45 years, were included in this controlled, cross‐sectional study: 63 men taking CBZ (epileptic group) were compared to 55 healthy men (control group). Blood sample was collected to determine hormones concentrations. Erectile function and the frequency of sexual relations were assessed by using questionnaires. Sperm morphology was analyzed by examining the quality of the head, intermediate part and tail of the spermatozoa. Results Using the IIEF‐5, we observed a significant association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and groups ( P P P P P  ≤ 0.001). Conclusions Epileptic men taking CBZ present with changes in hormonal levels, altered semen quality, ED, and a reduction in coital frequency. Reis RM, de Angelo AG, Sakamoto AC, Ferriani RA, and Lara LAS. Altered sexual and reproductive functions in epileptic men taking carbamazepine. J Sex Med **;**:**–**.