Bupropion, the atypical antidepressant used in smoke cessation: an in vitro study on its effects on human sperm function.

Objective: To assess the effects of the active metabolite of Bupropion, hydroxybupropion, on human spermatozoa in vitro.

Design: Laboratory based in vitro study.

Patients: Human sperm samples were collected from 45 normozoospermic patients (smokers and nonsmokers).

Exposure: Sperm samples were incubated at 37°C with 5% CO₂ for 2 hours with and without the IC₅₀ concentration of hydroxybupropion (1.9 μM).

Main outcome measures: Several sperm analysis were performed, including vitality, motility, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, mitochondria membrane potential, and acrosome integrity. High-speed video microscopy and Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis provided a detailed evaluation of sperm motility.

Results: Hydroxybupropion exposure resulted in significant impairments in sperm vitality and motility, particularly in progressive motility. Chromatin condensation was significantly reduced, whereas DNA fragmentation, especially in the equatorial region, significantly increased. Mitochondria membrane potential, acrosomal integrity, and reactive oxygen species production also significantly decreased after exposure.

Conclusion: The findings indicate potential harm to sperm parameters, which may contribute to infertility. Understanding how Bupropion affects reproductive function is crucial for clinicians and patients to make informed decisions regarding the use of this medication.