α1‐Adrenoceptors and ejaculatory function

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Abstract
The abnormal ejaculation of semen is a typical but infrequent side effect of someα1‐adrenoceptor antagonists, particularly those with selectivity forα1A‐adrenoceptors such as silodosin or tamsulosin. Recent clinical studies suggest that this represents a relative anejaculation rather than a retrograde ejaculation. An elegant study in this issue of the journal usingα1Asingle andα1A/B/Dtriple knock‐out mice reports a similar phenomenon in rodents. Using a multi‐disciplinary approach, the reduced ejaculation and related male infertility is shown to be caused by an impaired function of the vas deferens rather than by alterations in sperm formation, number or function. Similarities and differences between mouse and human data are discussed, particularly why a complete inhibition of all threeα1‐adrenoceptor subtypes has the strongest effects in mice whereas apparently onlyα1A‐adrenoceptor‐selective drugs impair ejaculatory function in humans.British Journal of Pharmacology(2007)152, 289–290; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707369; published online 2 July 2007

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