Lithium and Male Fertility
Written by Ben Bunting: BA(Hons), PGCert.
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How do lithium salts affect male fertility? In this article, you'll learn about the possible effects of lithium on male fertility. You'll learn about the effects of lithium on the thyroid gland, sperm viability, and mitochondrial function. This article also provides information on the effects of lithium on GFR. Lastly, you'll learn about the possible negative side effects of lithium on the male reproductive system.
Abnormalities of sperm mitochondrial function
Male infertility is associated with elevated levels of oxidative DNA damage. This damage is caused by the presence of 8-oxoG lesions. Sperm cells with fragmented DNA should be evaluated by a physician before undergoing assisted reproduction. Lithium salts are known to impair sperm mitochondrial function and negatively affect sperm motility.
The mitochondrial DNA encodes a subset of complex enzymatic components and cellular structures, including cytochrome b and ATP synthase. The integrity of the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes is important for normal sperm motility. Lithium salts also induce ROS, which cause mitochondrial oxidative damage. This damage is particularly detrimental to the reproductive system.
Impact of lithium on sperm viability
In a study using mice, lithium salts lowered the viability of sperm in a number of ways. Li+ decreased sperm mitochondrial function and reduced dehydrogenases activity. It also reduced ATP content and increased cellular LDH release. In addition, the serum testosterone and T levels were significantly decreased in mice exposed to lithium. In addition, oxidative stress was observed in epididymal germ cells.
➡️READ: Natural treatments for male infertility
In animal models, lithium may reduce the symptoms of bipolar disorder and lead to disorders of the reproductive system. In humans, lithium can also lead to disorders of the kidney, liver, and pancreas. Sperm disorder is common and is associated with infertility. Some forms of sperm disorder are due to medications taken by humans. In a recent study, scientists looked into how lithium and other heavy metals affect male fertility and the fertility of sperm.
Effects of lithium on GFR
While the effects of lithium on male fertility are still being debated, the current evidence indicates that the mineral alters intracellular signaling pathways, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) synthesis, and the sperm cell membrane. As a result, Li+ treatment leads to impaired spermatogenesis, decreased testosterone levels, and decreased male fertility. Further, there is no direct evidence that lithium is carcinogenic.
Lithium is also known to affect fetal development. Several published animal studies suggest that exposure to lithium during pregnancy may result in altered fetal weight, cleft palate, and skeletal anomalies. Embryonic implantation is also adversely affected. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to determine whether lithium causes harm or not. In addition to these, the effects on male fertility in utero are unknown.
Effects of lithium on thyroid gland
The effects of lithium treatment on the thyroid gland have long been debated. There are several factors to consider, such as whether lithium can lead to thyroid hypothyroidism or male infertility. Lithium has a long history of use as a psychiatric drug for bipolar depression and unipolar depression, and it is also used to prevent bipolar disorders. However, lithium can cause hypothyroidism, goiter, and hyperthyroidism, and it is important to be aware of these side effects. In this review, we looked at the effect of lithium on the thyroid gland, using Pubmed to look for articles.
Several studies have examined the effects of lithium on the thyroid gland, including its pharmacokinetics. Lithium has a complex mechanism of action, and the body reacts by producing thyroid antibodies. Although this effect has been reported in humans, it remains unclear whether lithium can affect male fertility. Although the effects of lithium are still being investigated, there are some guidelines that can help you understand how lithium works in your body.
Effects of lithium on calcium level
While there is limited data on the safety and efficacy of lithium during lactation and reproduction, animal studies suggest that the drug can cause adverse effects on male fertility. Effects of lithium on calcium level and male fertility are largely related to the serum lithium concentrations.
However, side effects are generally less common in patients with plasma concentrations less than 1.0 mmol/l. Side effects during initial therapy may include polyuria and fine tremor of the hands. Other adverse reactions include endocrine disorders such as hyperparathyroidism, metabolic and nutrition disorders.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether the long-term effects of maintenance lithium treatment on the levels of parathyroid hormone and calcium were correlated. The study involved bipolar patients treated with lithium.
The data collected were analyzed using paired t-tests. To determine the relationship between lithium and calcium levels, linear regressions were performed using the mean lithium level and PTH levels. Hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcemia were also associated with lithium exposure, although the effect was not statistically significant.
