Infertility and Teratogenicity after Paternal Exposure to Systemic Dermatologic Medications: A Systematic Review

Publication date: Available online 2 October 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): George A. Zakhem, Catherine C. Motosko, Euphemia W. Mu, Roger S. Ho

Abstract

Background

This systematic review assesses effects of paternal exposure of dermatologic medications, using the former US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pregnancy categories as a benchmark.

Objective

To assess whether systemic dermatologic medications can cause infertility and teratogenicity when taken by men.

Methods

Category D and X dermatologic medications were identified; a systematic review of the literature and reviews of the FDA Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) and prescribing information were performed to identify effects on male fertility and teratogenicity. Secondary search was performed to assess for other systemic dermatologic medications causing teratogenicity or infertility following paternal exposure.

Results

Thirteen medications met inclusion criteria. Nineteen of 1,032 studies were included after systematic review of the literature. Studies evaluating medication effects with paternal exposure were identified for 10 of 13 evaluated medications, and evidence of a negative effect was identified for 6 medications.

Limitations

We did not encounter any studies for 3 medications that met inclusion criteria. Information submitted to the FAERS may not reflect incidence of side effects.

Conclusions

Many former pregnancy category D and X systemic dermatologic medications also have effects on male fertility. More research and better-quality studies are required in this area, particularly assessing potential teratogenicity.