SHBC1179
X.HUANG1, EDWARD X.W.HUI2, HAZEL H.OON1
National Skin Centre1, National University of Singapore2
Limited research, often with conflicting findings, has been performed on the safety of dermatologic medication in potential fathers. This study seeks to evaluate the currently available literature and provide evidence-based guidance when counselling men on sexual adverse effects, especially in those with plans to conceive.
Common medications used in the largest outpatient specialist dermatological centre in Singapore were the focus of this review. A systematic PubMed search from inception to April 22, 2021 using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms was conducted, and drug information from UpToDate, Micromedex, ClinicalKey, EBSCO Discovery Service and the Tenth Edition of Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation was consulted. The aforementioned institution’s clinical practice guidelines were also used as a reference.
In this review of 231 studies, 124 medications from categories such as biologics; immunomodulating agents; antihistamines; acne, hair and cosmetic agents; and common non-dermatological medications were included. A total of 40 medications are associated with male infertility and sexual dysfunction while 16 medications are implicated with teratogenic concerns.
Extensive literature review on a comprehensive list of dermatologic medications had been conducted, yet many medications have limited data as the sexual effects have been an overlooked aspect. Apart from the data concluded in this review, the dose, route and duration of medication as well as therapeutic and safety profile of desired and alternative therapy should also be considered when prescribing medications to men who have plans to conceive.
