Clinical microdose study of gossypol: Effect on sperm motility and renal function

Abstract

This study is part of a series designed to identify the smallest effective gossypol dose for male fertility control. Three men, aged 31–35 years, were administered gossypol, 10 mg/day, orally for 3 months. Urinalysis and assays for plasma hormone values, including cortisol, β 2-microglobulin, potassium, and BUN, showed no changes during treatment. Forward sperm motility, however, was severely affected by the end of the treatment period (< 4% forward motility). Sperm density also showed a marked decrease. The subjects developed no undue side effects.