Effect of lisnopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor on spermatogenesis in rats.

The role of ACE inhibitors (Lisinopril) in reproductive function remains controversial. Some benefits seem to be derivable even in non-hypertensive males with low doses. This study was done using rat model to establish this fact. Male rats were divided into different groups to receive different doses of lisinopril. A control group received no drugs. The mean arterial pressure fell the most with 5 mg of lisinopril. The greatest increase in sperm count and motility was recorded for this same group. This response was dose dependent, falling as the drug dose fell. Lisinopril appeared to, in a dose dependent manner, improve sperm count and motility. In low doses, there is no significant change in arterial pressure. Infertile males with poor quality semen could benefit from a low dose of ACE inhibition. Where they are also hypertensive, ACE inhibition would be an appropriate first line treatment.