Effects of pentoxifylline on in vitro sperm motility and viability of infertile males with oligoasthenospermia

Abstract

Introduction: Quality of semen is one of the main determinants of male infertility. Pentoxifylline is generally being used in treating intermittent claudication and other vascular disorders. Apparently, pentoxifylline can enhance the quality and quantity of sperms, as well. This study was done to investigate the effects of pentoxifylline on in vitro sperm motility and viability of infertile males with oligoasthenospermia. Methods: In this single blind experimental study, 25 semen samples from 25 infertile males with oligoasthenospermia were examined. After isolating spermatozoa through swim-up method, they were divided randomly into four groups in ISM1™ environment: the controls which were treated normally; group 1 which was treated by 50 mcg/ml pentoxifylline, group 2 which was treated by 100 mcg/ml pentoxifylline and group 3 which was treated by 200 mcg/ml pentoxifylline. Sperm motility and viability were compared among groups after 45 minutes, 24, 36 and 48 hours. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 15 and repeated measures test. P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Mean percentage of motile sperms was examined in control group after 45 minutes, 24, 36 and 48 hours which was declined significantly at the end of study (p<0.001). There was not a significant difference between four groups in this regard (p=0.19). Mean percentage of live sperms was examined at mentioned time intervals in control group and declined significantly at the end of study (p<0.001). This decline was significantly lower in group 3 compare with other groups (p=0.01). Conclusion: Pentoxifylline enhances the viability of spermatozoa in infertile males with oligoasthenospermia only with dose of 200mcg/ml; with no significant effect on its motility. © 2013 All Rights Reserved.