The effects of opiate consumption on serum reproductive hormone levels, sperm parameters, seminal plasma antioxidant capacity and sperm DNA integrity

We evaluated the effects of opiate consumption on semen quality, sperm function, seminal plasma antioxidant capacity, and sperm DNA integrity. A total of 142 opiate addict men (group 1) were enrolled in the study and 146 healthy age matched male volunteers (group 2) served as controls. Two semen analyses were performed in all participants. Sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) was used to identify sperm DNA integrity. The mean ± SD sperm concentration in opiate users and in control subjects was 22.2 ± 4.4 and 66.3 ± 8.3 million per ml, respectively (P = 0.002). A significant increase in the amount of fragmented DNA was found in opiate consumers compared with that in controls (36.4 ± 3.8% vs. 27.1 ± 2.4%, P = 0.004). Significantly decreased levels of catalase-like and superoxide dismutase-like (SOD) activity were observed in group 1 compared with group 2. Opiate consumption has significant adverse effects on semen quality. In cases of unexplained infertility in men, opium consumption should be considered as a possible factor.

► The mean sperm density, motility, and normal morphology were statistically significantly lower in opium users.
► In addition, a significant increase in the amount of fragmented DNA was found in opium consumers compared with that in controls.
► Significantly decreased levels of catalase-like and SOD-like activity were observed in opium users compared with controls.
► Opium consumption has significant deleterious effects on semen quality.