Ofloxacin: concentration in human ejaculate and influence on sperm motility

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Urology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic.
• Andrologic patients may suffer from infections requiring effective antibiotic treatment.
• Prostate and seminal vesicle infections are common in andrology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine ofloxacin concentration in split ejaculate fractions.
• To assess the penetration of ofloxacin into the prostate and vesical glands.
• To evaluate the effect of ofloxacin on sperm motility.

Main Methods:

• Five healthy volunteers received 400 mg of ofloxacin daily for 3.5 days.
• Split ejaculate samples were collected and analyzed for ofloxacin concentration.
• Sperm motility was assessed in fresh ejaculate from 29 andrologic patients exposed to 4.5 mg/l ofloxacin.

Main Results:

• Ofloxacin concentrations in both ejaculate fractions were comparable (2.44 mg/l and 2.5 mg/l).
• This suggests similar ofloxacin penetration into the prostate and vesical glands.
• Ofloxacin at 4.5 mg/l did not impact sperm motility.

Conclusions:

• Ofloxacin demonstrates effective penetration into the prostate and vesical glands.
• Ofloxacin is a potent antibiotic suitable for clinical use in andrologic patients.
• The drug does not adversely affect sperm motility, making it a safe option.