From the FDA Drug Label
Hyperprolactinemia, regardless of etiology, may suppress hypothalamic GnRH, resulting in reduced pituitary gonadotrophin secretion This, in turn, may inhibit reproductive function by impairing gonadal steroidogenesis in both female and male patients. The answer is: Quetiapine may reduce testosterone levels indirectly by increasing prolactin levels, which can suppress gonadotropin secretion and impair gonadal steroidogenesis, including testosterone production 1.
- Key points:
- Quetiapine elevates prolactin levels in some patients
- Hyperprolactinemia may suppress hypothalamic GnRH and reduce pituitary gonadotrophin secretion
- Reduced gonadotrophin secretion may impair gonadal steroidogenesis, including testosterone production However, there is no direct information in the provided drug label that quetiapine reduces testosterone levels.
From the Research
Quetiapine has been shown to decrease testosterone levels, particularly at higher doses, as evidenced by a recent study published in 2022 2. This antipsychotic medication, commonly sold under brand names like Seroquel, primarily works by blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors but can also affect prolactin levels in some patients. Elevated prolactin can lead to decreased testosterone production. However, compared to other antipsychotics like risperidone or haloperidol, quetiapine is generally considered to have a lower impact on prolactin and testosterone levels. The effect appears to be dose-dependent, with higher doses potentially causing more significant hormonal changes. Some key points to consider include:
- Quetiapine's impact on testosterone levels may be related to its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, as suggested by studies on its pharmacological properties 3.
- The medication has been found to decrease sperm quality, alter hormone levels, and induce oxidative stress in testicular tissue, which may contribute to its adverse effects on testosterone production 2.
- Monitoring testosterone levels through blood tests is advisable, especially if symptoms like decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, or fatigue are experienced.
- It is essential not to stop taking prescribed quetiapine without consulting a healthcare provider, as the benefits of managing the psychiatric condition typically outweigh potential hormonal effects.
- A doctor can adjust the medication or recommend appropriate interventions if testosterone reduction becomes clinically significant. It is worth noting that the most recent and highest quality study on this topic, published in 2022, provides the strongest evidence for quetiapine's effects on testosterone levels 2.