Spermatozoa are vulnerable to lack of energy and oxidative stress as a result of elevated levels of reactive oxygen species. Therefore, it is essential that appropriate nutrients are available during maturation.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effect of 6 months supplementation with carnitines and other micronutrients on sperm quality in 104 subjects with oligo- and/or astheno- and/or teratozoospermia with or without varicocele. Semen analyses were done at the beginning and end of the treatment. In addition to main analyses, post-hoc analyses for age and body mass index (BMI) were carried out. Results were interpreted by dividing the population into two age and BMI classes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• men with oligo- and/or astheno- and/or terato-zoospermia
• with or without varicocele
• men aged between 18 and 50 years
• men from couples with history of difficulty conceiving for more than 12 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• subjects with known hypersensitivity to any of the treatment compound
• history of undescended testes or cancer
• endocrine disorders
• history of post-pubertal mumps
• genitourinary surgery
• obstructive azoospermia or obstructive pathology of the urogenital system
• autoimmune disease
• cystic fibrosis
• history of taking any therapy affecting fertility within last 3 months
• excessive consumption of alcohol or regular use of illicit or "recreational" drugs
• positive serology for HIV
• subjects following any special diet
• any condition which in the opinion of the investigator might put the subject at risk by participation in this study and subjects involved in any other clinical trials

Double-blind placebo controlled trial