Sexual and reproductive dysfunction associated with antiepileptic drug use in men with epilepsy

The association between epilepsy and sexual disorders has long been known. However, the etiology remains uncertain, although it is likely to be multifactorial in origin involving neurological, endocrine, iatrogenic, psychiatric and psychosocial factors. Sexual disorders associated with epilepsy can be directly related to seizures (ictal), or unrelated in time to seizure occurrence (interictal). The most common sexual dysfunction is hyposexuality, even if hypersexuality and different paraphilias have been reported in males with epilepsy. Epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs can also alter sex hormone levels to promote the development of reproductive endocrine disorders. This article aims to explore the prevalence and etiology of sexual and reproductive dysfunctions in men with epilepsy, highlighting the pivotal role of antiepileptic drugs in their pathogenesis.