Double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled study of efficiency and safety of complex acetyl-L-carnitine, L-carnitine fumarate and alpha-lipoic acid (Spermactin® Forte) for treatment of male  infertility

Гамидов, С. И.; Овчинников, Р. И.; Popova, Alina

doi:10.18565/urology.2019.4.61-68

Cited by 7 publications

(7 citation statements)

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“…These data were strongly in line with another recent open, prospective, randomized trial involving 114 men after microsurgical varicocelectomy (MVE) ( 28 ). These patients received a complex of acetyl-L-carnitine, L-carnitine fumarate and alpha-lipoic acid after surgery vs. placebo.…”

Section: Resultssupporting

confidence: 88%

High sperm DNA fragmentation: do we have robust evidence to support antioxidants and testicular sperm extraction to improve fertility outcomes? a narrative review

Romano,

Cirillo,

Spadaro

et al. 2023

Front. Endocrinol.

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To date, infertility affects 10% to 15% of couples worldwide. A male factor is estimated to account for up to 50% of cases. Oral supplementation with antioxidants could be helpful to improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative damage. At the same time, there is a growing interest in the literature on the use of testicular sperm in patients with high DNA fragmentation index (DFI). This narrative review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of supplementation of oral antioxidants in infertile men with high DFI compared to testicular sperm retrieval. The current evidence is non-conclusive because of serious risk of bias due to small sample sizes and statistical methods. Further large well-designed randomised placebo-controlled trials are still required to clarify the exact role of these to different therapeutic approaches.

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Section: Resultssupporting

confidence: 88%

High sperm DNA fragmentation: do we have robust evidence to support antioxidants and testicular sperm extraction to improve fertility outcomes? a narrative review

Romano,

Cirillo,

Spadaro

et al. 2023

Front. Endocrinol.

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“…Additionally, studies using a combined treatment of L-Carnitine, acetyl-L-Carnitine, and other micronutrients once a day for 6 months also showed positive results regarding sperm quality in male infertility patients [ 23 , 41 , 102 ]. Sperm concentration was significantly increased in supplemented patients compared to the placebo.…”

Section: L-carnitine In Male Fertilitymentioning

confidence: 99%

“…In addition to increased motility, increased morphology has been reported following the third month of therapy. The level of free oxygen radicals decreased in the supplemented group compared to the placebo group, an indicator of OS, and DNA damage was increased in the placebo group compared to supplemented group [ 23 ]. Consequently, the benefits of L-Carnitine can improve fertility rates [ 41 ].…”

Section: L-carnitine In Male Fertilitymentioning

confidence: 99%

“…L-Carnitine is described as a powerful antioxidant that reduces OS in several tissues, including the testis and epididymis. It acts by scavenging ROS and preventing their damaging effects [ 23 ]. Indeed, L-Carnitine (β-hydroxy-γ-trimethylaminobutyrate), a quaternary amine, is known as a natural antioxidant found in mammals.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…L-Carnitine is a popular supplement often used by athletes for its antioxidant properties, which can enhance performance and aid in post-exercise recovery. Additionally, it is often recognized as a “fat burner” due to its involvement in aerobic metabolism within the mitochondria, promoting fat oxidation and supporting muscle mass [ 23 , 24 ]. Furthermore, L-Carnitine has garnered attention in various therapeutic applications, including its potential role in the treatment of male infertility.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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L-Carnitine and Male Fertility: Is Supplementation Beneficial?

Mateus,

Moreira,

Martins

et al. 2023

JCM

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L-Carnitine, a natural antioxidant found in mammals, plays a crucial role in the transport of long-chain fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane. It is used as a nutritional supplement by professional athletes, improving performance and post-exercise recovery. Additionally, its therapeutic applications, including those in male infertility, have been investigated, as it may act as a defense mechanism against the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the testis, a process that can lead to sperm damage. This effect is achieved by enhancing the expression and activity of enzymes with antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the benefits of L-Carnitine remain unknown. This review aims to consolidate the current knowledge about the potential benefits of L-Carnitine and its role in male (in)fertility. Considering in vitro studies with Sertoli cells, pre-clinical studies, and investigations involving infertile men, a comprehensive understanding of the effects of L-Carnitine has been established. In vitro studies suggest that L-Carnitine has a direct influence on somatic Sertoli cells, improving the development of germ cells. Overall, evidence supports that L-Carnitine can positively impact male fertility, even at a relatively low dose of 2 g/day. This supplementation enhances sperm parameters, regulates hormone levels, reduces ROS levels, and subsequently improves fertility rates. However, further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and establish optimal doses. In conclusion, the role of L-Carnitine in the field of male reproductive health is highlighted, with the potential to improve sperm quality and fertility.

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