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Abstract
Purpose
Psoriasis, affecting approximately 2% of the world’s population, often necessitates systemic treatments, with methotrexate (MTX) as a cornerstone therapy. Despite documented systemic side effects of MTX, concerns about its impact on male reproductive health persist. We aim to investigate low-dose MTX effect on hormonal, cellular and functional ability of male reproductive system.
Materials and methods
Our prospective study on 40 male psoriasis patients receiving low-dose MTX (<15mg/week) comprehensively investigates its effects on erectile function, sex hormones, and spermiogram parameters.
Results
After six months of MTX treatment, a significant decline in erectile function (p < 0.001) decreased total testosterone levels (p = 0.03) were observed. No significant reduction in sperm count was noted after six months of MTX treatment.
Conclusions
Our study highlights a significant decline in erectile function following low-dose MTX therapy, warranting further investigation into this potential side effect. While reassuring for sperm quantity and quality, the findings emphasise the necessity for larger cohorts and longer follow-up times to validate results and comprehend the complex interactions between MTX and male sexual health.
Authorship contribution
Conceptualisation (HA, TY, ANK); Data Curation (HA, TY, SPK, GTA); Formal Analysis (HA, ANK); Investigation (HA, TY, SPK, ANK, GTA); Methodology (HA, ANK); Project Administration (HA, ANK); Resource (HA, TY); Supervision (ANK, SPK); Writing (HA, TY); Review & Editing (HA, TY, SPK, ANK, GTA).
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).