Number of studies
16
Years of studies
2002-2023
Our Science - Behind Time to Conceive® For Men
OUR RESEARCH
Quality, and quantity.
Our research shows that cheaper, less absorbable forms of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are often used in fertility supplements. And in many cases, key ingredients are in doses too low to be effective.
We think that’s wrong.
Our product development is led by embryologists, IVF consultants, nurses, midwives and psychologists, working in both NHS and private clinics across the UK.
Our supplements are grounded in the very latest scientific research, and we’re proud not to scrimp or save on doses at the expense of quality and efficacy.
We’re also proud to be the only brand in the world working in reproductive wellness to review our formulations annually.
There are over 86,000 studies on fertility and nutrients - and counting.
Our in-house scientists track the emerging evidence to guide our product development and ensure we lead the market for quality and integrity.
Our Nutrients in Time to Conceive® For Men
Methylfolate
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
N-Acetyl L-Cysteine
Vitamin C
MicroActive® CoQ10
Zinc
Lycopene
Vitamin B12
Vitamin E
selenium
Vitamin D3
Myo-Inositol
Carnitines
Majzoub A, Agarwal A.
Systematic review of antioxidant types and doses in male infertility: Benefits on semen parameters, advanced sperm function, assisted reproduction and live-birth rate. Arab J Urol. 2018 Jan 2;16(1):113-124.
Irani M, Amirian M, Sadeghi R, Lez JL, Latifnejad Roudsari R.
The effect of folate and folate plus zinc supplementation on endocrine parameters and sperm characteristics in sub‐fertile men: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Urology Journal August 29 2017;14(5):4069‐78
Wong W.Y., Merkus H.M., Thomas C.M., Menkveld R., Zielhuis G.A., Steegers-Theunissen R.P.
Effects of folic acid and zinc sulfate on male factor subfertility: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Fertil Steril. 2002;77:491–498
Abad C., Amengual M.J., Gosálvez J., Coward K., Hannaoui N., Benet J., García-Peiró A., Prats J.
Effects of Oral Antioxidant Treatment upon the Dynamics of Human Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Subpopulations of Sperm with Highly Degraded DNA. Andrologia. 2013;45:211–216.
Tremellen K., Miari G., Froiland D., Thompson J.
A Randomised Control Trial Examining the Effect of an Antioxidant (Menevit) on Pregnancy Outcome during IVF-ICSI Treatment. Aust. N. Z. J. Obstet. Gynaecol. 2007;47:216–221
Number of studies
7
Years of studies
2021-2024
Oliveira LCSL, Costa EC, Martins FDG, Rocha ASD, Brasil GA.
Probiotics supplementation in the treatment of male infertility: A Systematic Review. JBRA Assist Reprod. 2024 Jun 1;28(2):341-348
Farahani L, Tharakan T, Yap T, Ramsay JW, Jayasena CN, Minhas S.
The semen microbiome and its impact on sperm function and male fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrology. 2021 Jan;9(1):115-144
Magill RG, MacDonald SM.
Male infertility and the human microbiome. Front Reprod Health. 2023 Jun 9;5:1166201
Maretti C, Cavallini G.
The association of a probiotic with a prebiotic to improve the quality/quantity of spermatozoa in infertile patients with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia: a pilot study. Andrology. 2017 May;5(3):439-444
Valcarce DG, Genovés S, Riesco MF, Martorell P, Herráez MP, Ramón D, Robles V. Probiotic administration improves sperm quality in asthenozoospermic human donors. Benef Microbes. 2017 Apr 26;8(2):193-206
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
2009-2025
Effects of N-acetylcysteine on semen parameters and oxidative/antioxidant status. Urology. 2009 Jul;74(1):73-6
Syarif S, Makkaraka MAG, Zainal ATF, Birowo P, Atmoko W.
Unlocking the potential of antioxidant supplementation with n-acetylcysteine to improve seminal parameters and analysis of its safety: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Arch Ital Urol Androl. 2025 Mar 28;97(1):13750
Zhou Z, Cui Y, Zhang X, Zhang Y.
The role of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) orally daily on the sperm parameters and serum hormones in idiopathic infertile men: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Andrologia. 2021 Mar;53(2):e13953
Buhling K, Schumacher A, Eulenburg CZ, Laakmann E.
Influence of oral vitamin and mineral supplementation on male infertility: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online. 2019 Aug;39(2):269-279.
Wei G, Zhou Z, Cui Y, Huang Y, Wan Z, Che X, Chai Y, Zhang Y.
A Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of L-Carnitine/L-Acetyl-Carnitine or N-Acetyl-Cysteine in Men With Idiopathic Asthenozoospermia. Am J Mens Health. 2021 Mar-Apr;15(2)
Jannatifar R, Parivar K, Roodbari NH, Nasr-Esfahani MH.
Effects of N-acetyl-cysteine supplementation on sperm quality, chromatin integrity and level of oxidative stress in infertile men. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2019 Feb 16;17(1):24. doi: 10.1186/s12958-019-0468-9
Safarinejad MR, Safarinejad S.
Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomised study. J Urol 2009;181:741–51.
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
2005-2023
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Dimitriadis F, Borgmann H, Struck JP, Salem J, Kuru TH.
Antioxidant Supplementation on Male Fertility - A Systematic Review. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Mar 30;12(4):836
Omu A.E., Al-Azemi M.K., Kehinde E.O., Anim J.T., Oriowo M.A., Mathew T.C.
Indications of the Mechanisms Involved in Improved Sperm Parameters by Zinc Therapy. Med. Prin. Pr. 2008;17:108–116
Greco E., Iacobelli M., Rienzi L., Ubaldi F., Ferrero S., Tesarik J.
Reduction of the Incidence of Sperm DNA Fragmentation by Oral Antioxidant Treatment. J. Androl. 2005;26:349–353. doi: 10.2164/jandrol.04146
Steiner, Anne Z. et al.
The effect of antioxidants on male factor infertility: the Males, Antioxidants, and Infertility (MOXI) randomized clinical trial. Fertility and Sterility, Volume 113, Issue 3, 552 - 560.e3 2021
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
2009-2025
Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, Becerra-Tomás N, Vizmanos B, Bulló M, Salas-Salvadó J.
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 2018 Nov 1;9(6):833-848
Akhigbe TM, Fidelis FB, Adekunle AO, Ashonibare VJ, Akorede BA, Shuaibu MS, Hassan SA, Adegbola CA, Ashonibare PJ, Oladapo OM, Adeogun AE, Bamidele SG, Oyedokun PA, Mukolokota M, Kukoyi OS, Oladipo AA, Adelowo OE, Akangbe MD, Hughes JR, Ricken AM, Culty M, Avellar MCW, Akhigbe RE.
Does coenzyme Q10 improve semen quality and circulating testosterone level? a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Pharmacol. 2025 Jan 3;15:1497930
Ma L, Sun Y.
Comparison of L-Carnitine vs. Coq10 and Vitamin E for idiopathic male infertility: a randomized controlled trial. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2022 Jul;26(13):4698-4704
Alahmar AT, Sengupta P.
Impact of Coenzyme Q10 and Selenium on Seminal Fluid Parameters and Antioxidant Status in Men with Idiopathic Infertility. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2021 Apr;199(4):1246-1252. doi: 10.1007/s12011-020-02251-3.
Cheng JB, Zhu J, Ni F, Jiang H.
L-carnitine combined with coenzyme Q10 for idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue. 2018;24(1):33-38.
Safarinejad MR, Safarinejad S, Shafiei N, Safarinejad S.
Effects of the reduced form of coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinol) on semen parameters in men with idiopathic infertility: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study. J Urol. 2012 Aug;188(2):526-31
Balercia G, Buldreghini E, Vignini A, Tiano L, Paggi F, Amoroso S, Ricciardo-Lamonica G, Boscaro M, Lenzi A, Littarru G.
Coenzyme Q10 treatment in infertile men with idiopathic asthenozoospermia: a placebo-controlled, double-blind randomised trial. Fertil Steril. 2009 May;91(5):1785-92.
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
1998-2025
Omu A.E., Dashti H., Al-Othman S.
Treatment of asthenozoospermia with zinc sulphate: andrological, immunological and obstetric outcome. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1998;79:179
Irani M, Amirian M, Sadeghi R, Lez JL, Latifnejad Roudsari R.
The effect of folate and folate plus zinc supplementation on endocrine parameters and sperm characteristics in sub‐fertile men: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Urology Journal August 29 2017;14(5):4069‐78.
Barbonetti A, Tienforti D, Castellini C, Giulio FD, Muselli M, Pizzocaro A, Vena W, Baroni MG, Pivonello R, Isidori AM, Maggi M, Corona G.
Effect of antioxidants on semen parameters in men with oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia: a network meta-analysis. Andrology. 2024 Mar;12(3):538-552.
Lahimer M, Capelle S, Lefranc E, Bosquet D, Kazdar N, Ledu A, Agina M, Cabry R, BenKhalifa M.
Micronutrient-Antioxidant Therapy and Male Fertility Improvement During ART Cycles. Nutrients. 2025 Jan 17;17(2):324.
Wong W.Y., Merkus H.M., Thomas C.M., Menkveld R., Zielhuis G.A., Steegers-Theunissen R.P.
Effects of folic acid and zinc sulfate on male factor subfertility: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Fertil Steril. 2002;77:491–498
Number of studies
7
Years of studies
2007-2024
Vakili S, Samare-Najaf M, Karimi A, Jahromi BN, Mohit M, Hashempur MH.
Lycopene in male infertility. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 2024 Dec 10.
Ghewade P, Vagha S, Ghewade B, Gadkari P.
Role of Dietary Antioxidant Supplements in Male Infertility: A Review. Cureus. 2024 Jun 8;16(6):e61951
Williams EA, Parker M, Robinson A, Pitt S, Pacey AA.
A randomised placebo-controlled trial to investigate the effect of lactolycopene on semen quality in healthy males. Eur J Nutr. 2020 Mar;59(2):825-833.
Zareba P, Colaci DS, Afeiche M, Gaskins AJ, Jørgensen N, Mendiola J, Swan SH, Chavarro JE.
Semen quality in relation to antioxidant intake in a healthy male population. Fertil Steril. 2013 Dec;100(6):1572-9.
Mínguez-Alarcón L, Mendiola J, López-Espín JJ, Sarabia-Cos L, Vivero-Salmerón G, Vioque J, Navarrete-Muñoz EM, Torres-Cantero AM.
Dietary intake of antioxidant nutrients is associated with semen quality in young university students. Hum Reprod. 2012 Sep;27(9):2807-14.
Nouri M, Amani R, Nasr-Esfahani M, Tarrahi MJ.
The effects of lycopene supplement on the spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress in infertile men: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2019 Dec;33(12):3203-3211.
Number of studies
5
Years of studies
1984-2017
Banihani SA.
Vitamin B12 and Semen Quality. Biomolecules. 2017 Jun 9;7(2):42
Isoyama R, Kawai S, Shimizu Y, Harada H, Takihara H, Baba Y, Sakatoku J.
Clinical experience with methylcobalamin (CH3-B12) for male infertility. Hinyokika Kiyo. 1984 Apr;30(4):581-6.
Gual-Frau J, Abad C, Amengual MJ, Hannaoui N, Checa MA, Ribas-Maynou J, Lozano I, Nikolaou A, Benet J, García-Peiró A, Prats J.
Oral antioxidant treatment partly improves integrity of human sperm DNA in infertile grade I varicocele patients. Hum Fertil (Camb). 2015
Abad C, Amengual MJ, Gosálvez J, Coward K, Hannaoui N, Benet J, García-Peiró A, Prats J.
Effects of oral antioxidant treatment upon the dynamics of human sperm DNA fragmentation and subpopulations of sperm with highly degraded DNA. Andrologia. 2013 Jun;45(3):211-6
Number of studies
8
Years of studies
1995-2024
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Ghewade P, Vagha S, Ghewade B, Gadkari P.
Role of Dietary Antioxidant Supplements in Male Infertility: A Review. Cureus. 2024 Jun 8;16(6)
Greco E, Iacobelli M, Rienzi L, Ubaldi F, Ferrero S, Tesarik J.
Reduction of the incidence of sperm DNA fragmentation by oral antioxidant treatment. Journal of Andrology 2005;26(3):349-53
Omu AE, Al-Azemi MK, Kehinde EO, Anim JT, Oriowo MA, Mathew TC.
Indications of the mechanisms involved in improved sperm parameters by zinc therapy. Med Princ Pract. 2008;17(2):108-16
Number of studies
10
Years of studies
1998-2024
Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, Becerra-Tomás N, Vizmanos B, Bulló M, Salas-Salvadó J.
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 2018 Nov 1;9(6):833-848
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Yuan S, Zhang Y, Dong PY, Chen Yan YM, Liu J, Zhang BQ, Chen MM, Zhang SE, Zhang XF.
A comprehensive review on potential role of selenium, selenoproteins and selenium nanoparticles in male fertility. Heliyon. 2024 Jul 19;10(15)
Safarinejad MR, Safarinejad S.
Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study. J Urol 2009;181:741–51.
Alahmar AT, Sengupta P.
Impact of Coenzyme Q10 and Selenium on Seminal Fluid Parameters and Antioxidant Status in Men with Idiopathic Infertility. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2021 Apr;199(4):1246-1252. doi: 10.1007/s12011-020-02251-3.
Keskes-Ammar L, Feki-Chakroun N, Rebai T, Sahnoun Z, Ghozzi H, Hammami S, Zghal K, Fki H, Damak J, Bahloul A.
Sperm oxidative stress and the effect of an oral vitamin E and selenium supplement on semen quality in infertile men. Arch Androl. 2003 Mar-Apr;49(2):83-94\
Number of studies
13
Years of studies
2021-2025
Lerchbaum E, Obermayer-Pietsch B.
Vitamin D and fertility: a systematic review. Eur J Endocrinol. 2012 May;166(5):765-78
de Angelis C, Galdiero M, Pivonello C, Garifalos F, Menafra D, Cariati F, Salzano C, Galdiero G, Piscopo M, Vece A, Colao A, Pivonello R.
The role of vitamin D in male fertility: A focus on the testis. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2017 Sep;18(3):285-305
Yahyavi SK, Boisen IM, Cui Z, Jorsal MJ, Kooij I, Holt R, Juul A, Blomberg Jensen M. Calcium and vitamin D homoeostasis in male fertility. Proc Nutr Soc. 2024 May;83(2):95-108
Anagnostis P, Karras S, Goulis DG.
Vitamin D in human reproduction: a narrative review. Int J Clin Pract. 2013 Mar;67(3):225-35
Arab A, Hadi A, Moosavian SP, Askari G, Nasirian M.
The association between serum vitamin D, fertility and semen quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Surg. 2019
Blomberg Jensen M, Lawaetz JG, Petersen JH, Juul A, Jørgensen N.
Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Semen Quality, Reproductive Hormones, and Live Birth Rate: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018 Mar 1;103(3):870-881
Blomberg Jensen M, Gerner Lawaetz J, Andersson AM, Petersen JH, Nordkap L, Bang AK, Ekbom P, Joensen UN, Prætorius L, Lundstrøm P, Boujida VH, Lanske B, Juul A, Jørgensen N.
Vitamin D deficiency and low ionized calcium are linked with semen quality and sex steroid levels in infertile men. Hum Reprod. 2016 Aug;31(8):1875-85
DiTosto JD, Caniglia EC, Hinkle SN, Sealy N, Schisterman EF, Johnstone E, Mendola P, Mills J, Hotaling J, Ryan G, Mumford SL.
Target trial emulation of preconception serum vitamin D status on fertility outcomes: a couples-based approach. Fertil Steril. 2025 Feb;123(2):300-312
Number of studies
8
Years of studies
2015-2024
Vazquez-Levin MH, Verón GL.
Myo-inositol in health and disease: its impact on semen parameters and male fertility. Andrology. 2020 Mar;8(2):277-298.
Ghaemi M, Seighali N, Shafiee A, Beiky M, Kohandel Gargari O, Azarboo A, Shafti V, Jafarabady K, Eshraghi N, Haddadi M, Akbari R, Panahi Z, Hantoushzadeh S.
The effect of Myo-inositol on improving sperm quality and IVF outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Food Sci Nutr. 2024 Sep 12;12(11):8515-8524
Li YY, Jia YP, Duan LY, Li KM.
Participation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium channel in the zona pellucida - and progesterone-induced acrosome reaction and calcium influx in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl. 2020 Mar-Apr;22(2):192-199
Calogero AE, Gullo G, La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Vaiarelli A.
Myoinositol improves sperm parameters and serum reproductive hormones in patients with idiopathic infertility: a prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study. Andrology. 2015 May;3(3):491-5.
Gulino FA, Leonardi E, Marilli I, Musmeci G, Vitale SG, Leanza V, Palumbo MA.
Effect of treatment with myo-inositol on semen parameters of patients undergoing an IVF cycle: in vivo study. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2016;32(1):65-8.
Canepa P, Dal Lago A, De Leo C, Gallo M, Rizzo C, Licata E, Anserini P, Rago R, Scaruffi P.
Combined treatment with myo-inositol, alpha-lipoic acid, folic acid and vitamins significantly improves sperm parameters of sub-fertile men: a multi-centric study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2018 Oct;22(20):7078-7085
Number of studies
14
Years of studies
2005-2025
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, Becerra-Tomás N, Vizmanos B, Bulló M, Salas-Salvadó J.
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 2018 Nov 1;9(6):833-848
Li KP, Yang XS, Wu T.
The Effect of Antioxidants on Sperm Quality Parameters and Pregnancy Rates for Idiopathic Male Infertility: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Feb 21;13:810242.
Khaw SC, Wong ZZ, Anderson R, Martins da Silva S.
l-carnitine and l-acetylcarnitine supplementation for idiopathic male infertility. Reprod Fertil. 2020 Dec 23;1(1):67-81.
Busetto GM, Agarwal A, Virmani A, Antonini G, Ragonesi G, Del Giudice F, Micic S, Gentile V, De Berardinis E.
Effect of metabolic and antioxidant supplementation on sperm parameters in oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia, with and without varicocele: A double-blind placebo-controlled study. Andrologia. 2018 Apr;50(3)
De Rosa M, Boggia B, Amalfi B, Zarrilli S, Vita A, Colao A, Lombardi G.
Correlation between seminal carnitine and functional spermatozoal characteristics in men with semen dysfunction of various origins. Drugs R D. 2005;6(1):1-9
Methylfolate
Number of studies
16
Years of studies
2002-2023
Majzoub A, Agarwal A.
Systematic review of antioxidant types and doses in male infertility: Benefits on semen parameters, advanced sperm function, assisted reproduction and live-birth rate. Arab J Urol. 2018 Jan 2;16(1):113-124.
Irani M, Amirian M, Sadeghi R, Lez JL, Latifnejad Roudsari R.
The effect of folate and folate plus zinc supplementation on endocrine parameters and sperm characteristics in sub‐fertile men: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Urology Journal August 29 2017;14(5):4069‐78
Wong W.Y., Merkus H.M., Thomas C.M., Menkveld R., Zielhuis G.A., Steegers-Theunissen R.P.
Effects of folic acid and zinc sulfate on male factor subfertility: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Fertil Steril. 2002;77:491–498
Abad C., Amengual M.J., Gosálvez J., Coward K., Hannaoui N., Benet J., García-Peiró A., Prats J.
Effects of Oral Antioxidant Treatment upon the Dynamics of Human Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Subpopulations of Sperm with Highly Degraded DNA. Andrologia. 2013;45:211–216.
Tremellen K., Miari G., Froiland D., Thompson J.
A Randomised Control Trial Examining the Effect of an Antioxidant (Menevit) on Pregnancy Outcome during IVF-ICSI Treatment. Aust. N. Z. J. Obstet. Gynaecol. 2007;47:216–221
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Number of studies
7
Years of studies
2021-2024
Oliveira LCSL, Costa EC, Martins FDG, Rocha ASD, Brasil GA.
Probiotics supplementation in the treatment of male infertility: A Systematic Review. JBRA Assist Reprod. 2024 Jun 1;28(2):341-348
Farahani L, Tharakan T, Yap T, Ramsay JW, Jayasena CN, Minhas S.
The semen microbiome and its impact on sperm function and male fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrology. 2021 Jan;9(1):115-144
Magill RG, MacDonald SM.
Male infertility and the human microbiome. Front Reprod Health. 2023 Jun 9;5:1166201
Maretti C, Cavallini G.
The association of a probiotic with a prebiotic to improve the quality/quantity of spermatozoa in infertile patients with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia: a pilot study. Andrology. 2017 May;5(3):439-444
Valcarce DG, Genovés S, Riesco MF, Martorell P, Herráez MP, Ramón D, Robles V. Probiotic administration improves sperm quality in asthenozoospermic human donors. Benef Microbes. 2017 Apr 26;8(2):193-206
N-Acetyl L-Cysteine
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
2009-2025
Effects of N-acetylcysteine on semen parameters and oxidative/antioxidant status. Urology. 2009 Jul;74(1):73-6
Syarif S, Makkaraka MAG, Zainal ATF, Birowo P, Atmoko W.
Unlocking the potential of antioxidant supplementation with n-acetylcysteine to improve seminal parameters and analysis of its safety: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Arch Ital Urol Androl. 2025 Mar 28;97(1):13750
Zhou Z, Cui Y, Zhang X, Zhang Y.
The role of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) orally daily on the sperm parameters and serum hormones in idiopathic infertile men: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Andrologia. 2021 Mar;53(2):e13953
Buhling K, Schumacher A, Eulenburg CZ, Laakmann E.
Influence of oral vitamin and mineral supplementation on male infertility: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online. 2019 Aug;39(2):269-279.
Wei G, Zhou Z, Cui Y, Huang Y, Wan Z, Che X, Chai Y, Zhang Y.
A Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of L-Carnitine/L-Acetyl-Carnitine or N-Acetyl-Cysteine in Men With Idiopathic Asthenozoospermia. Am J Mens Health. 2021 Mar-Apr;15(2)
Jannatifar R, Parivar K, Roodbari NH, Nasr-Esfahani MH.
Effects of N-acetyl-cysteine supplementation on sperm quality, chromatin integrity and level of oxidative stress in infertile men. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2019 Feb 16;17(1):24. doi: 10.1186/s12958-019-0468-9
Safarinejad MR, Safarinejad S.
Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomised study. J Urol 2009;181:741–51.
Vitamin C
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
2005-2023
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Dimitriadis F, Borgmann H, Struck JP, Salem J, Kuru TH.
Antioxidant Supplementation on Male Fertility - A Systematic Review. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Mar 30;12(4):836
Omu A.E., Al-Azemi M.K., Kehinde E.O., Anim J.T., Oriowo M.A., Mathew T.C.
Indications of the Mechanisms Involved in Improved Sperm Parameters by Zinc Therapy. Med. Prin. Pr. 2008;17:108–116
Greco E., Iacobelli M., Rienzi L., Ubaldi F., Ferrero S., Tesarik J.
Reduction of the Incidence of Sperm DNA Fragmentation by Oral Antioxidant Treatment. J. Androl. 2005;26:349–353. doi: 10.2164/jandrol.04146
Steiner, Anne Z. et al.
The effect of antioxidants on male factor infertility: the Males, Antioxidants, and Infertility (MOXI) randomized clinical trial. Fertility and Sterility, Volume 113, Issue 3, 552 - 560.e3 2021
MicroActive® CoQ10
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
2009-2025
Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, Becerra-Tomás N, Vizmanos B, Bulló M, Salas-Salvadó J.
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 2018 Nov 1;9(6):833-848
Akhigbe TM, Fidelis FB, Adekunle AO, Ashonibare VJ, Akorede BA, Shuaibu MS, Hassan SA, Adegbola CA, Ashonibare PJ, Oladapo OM, Adeogun AE, Bamidele SG, Oyedokun PA, Mukolokota M, Kukoyi OS, Oladipo AA, Adelowo OE, Akangbe MD, Hughes JR, Ricken AM, Culty M, Avellar MCW, Akhigbe RE.
Does coenzyme Q10 improve semen quality and circulating testosterone level? a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Pharmacol. 2025 Jan 3;15:1497930
Ma L, Sun Y.
Comparison of L-Carnitine vs. Coq10 and Vitamin E for idiopathic male infertility: a randomized controlled trial. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2022 Jul;26(13):4698-4704
Alahmar AT, Sengupta P.
Impact of Coenzyme Q10 and Selenium on Seminal Fluid Parameters and Antioxidant Status in Men with Idiopathic Infertility. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2021 Apr;199(4):1246-1252. doi: 10.1007/s12011-020-02251-3.
Cheng JB, Zhu J, Ni F, Jiang H.
L-carnitine combined with coenzyme Q10 for idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue. 2018;24(1):33-38.
Safarinejad MR, Safarinejad S, Shafiei N, Safarinejad S.
Effects of the reduced form of coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinol) on semen parameters in men with idiopathic infertility: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study. J Urol. 2012 Aug;188(2):526-31
Balercia G, Buldreghini E, Vignini A, Tiano L, Paggi F, Amoroso S, Ricciardo-Lamonica G, Boscaro M, Lenzi A, Littarru G.
Coenzyme Q10 treatment in infertile men with idiopathic asthenozoospermia: a placebo-controlled, double-blind randomised trial. Fertil Steril. 2009 May;91(5):1785-92.
Zinc
Number of studies
9
Years of studies
1998-2025
Omu A.E., Dashti H., Al-Othman S.
Treatment of asthenozoospermia with zinc sulphate: andrological, immunological and obstetric outcome. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1998;79:179
Irani M, Amirian M, Sadeghi R, Lez JL, Latifnejad Roudsari R.
The effect of folate and folate plus zinc supplementation on endocrine parameters and sperm characteristics in sub‐fertile men: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Urology Journal August 29 2017;14(5):4069‐78.
Barbonetti A, Tienforti D, Castellini C, Giulio FD, Muselli M, Pizzocaro A, Vena W, Baroni MG, Pivonello R, Isidori AM, Maggi M, Corona G.
Effect of antioxidants on semen parameters in men with oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia: a network meta-analysis. Andrology. 2024 Mar;12(3):538-552.
Lahimer M, Capelle S, Lefranc E, Bosquet D, Kazdar N, Ledu A, Agina M, Cabry R, BenKhalifa M.
Micronutrient-Antioxidant Therapy and Male Fertility Improvement During ART Cycles. Nutrients. 2025 Jan 17;17(2):324.
Wong W.Y., Merkus H.M., Thomas C.M., Menkveld R., Zielhuis G.A., Steegers-Theunissen R.P.
Effects of folic acid and zinc sulfate on male factor subfertility: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Fertil Steril. 2002;77:491–498
Lycopene
Number of studies
7
Years of studies
2007-2024
Vakili S, Samare-Najaf M, Karimi A, Jahromi BN, Mohit M, Hashempur MH.
Lycopene in male infertility. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 2024 Dec 10.
Ghewade P, Vagha S, Ghewade B, Gadkari P.
Role of Dietary Antioxidant Supplements in Male Infertility: A Review. Cureus. 2024 Jun 8;16(6):e61951
Williams EA, Parker M, Robinson A, Pitt S, Pacey AA.
A randomised placebo-controlled trial to investigate the effect of lactolycopene on semen quality in healthy males. Eur J Nutr. 2020 Mar;59(2):825-833.
Zareba P, Colaci DS, Afeiche M, Gaskins AJ, Jørgensen N, Mendiola J, Swan SH, Chavarro JE.
Semen quality in relation to antioxidant intake in a healthy male population. Fertil Steril. 2013 Dec;100(6):1572-9.
Mínguez-Alarcón L, Mendiola J, López-Espín JJ, Sarabia-Cos L, Vivero-Salmerón G, Vioque J, Navarrete-Muñoz EM, Torres-Cantero AM.
Dietary intake of antioxidant nutrients is associated with semen quality in young university students. Hum Reprod. 2012 Sep;27(9):2807-14.
Nouri M, Amani R, Nasr-Esfahani M, Tarrahi MJ.
The effects of lycopene supplement on the spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress in infertile men: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2019 Dec;33(12):3203-3211.
Vitamin B12
Number of studies
5
Years of studies
1984-2017
Banihani SA.
Vitamin B12 and Semen Quality. Biomolecules. 2017 Jun 9;7(2):42
Isoyama R, Kawai S, Shimizu Y, Harada H, Takihara H, Baba Y, Sakatoku J.
Clinical experience with methylcobalamin (CH3-B12) for male infertility. Hinyokika Kiyo. 1984 Apr;30(4):581-6.
Gual-Frau J, Abad C, Amengual MJ, Hannaoui N, Checa MA, Ribas-Maynou J, Lozano I, Nikolaou A, Benet J, García-Peiró A, Prats J.
Oral antioxidant treatment partly improves integrity of human sperm DNA in infertile grade I varicocele patients. Hum Fertil (Camb). 2015
Abad C, Amengual MJ, Gosálvez J, Coward K, Hannaoui N, Benet J, García-Peiró A, Prats J.
Effects of oral antioxidant treatment upon the dynamics of human sperm DNA fragmentation and subpopulations of sperm with highly degraded DNA. Andrologia. 2013 Jun;45(3):211-6
Vitamin E
Number of studies
8
Years of studies
1995-2024
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Ghewade P, Vagha S, Ghewade B, Gadkari P.
Role of Dietary Antioxidant Supplements in Male Infertility: A Review. Cureus. 2024 Jun 8;16(6)
Greco E, Iacobelli M, Rienzi L, Ubaldi F, Ferrero S, Tesarik J.
Reduction of the incidence of sperm DNA fragmentation by oral antioxidant treatment. Journal of Andrology 2005;26(3):349-53
Omu AE, Al-Azemi MK, Kehinde EO, Anim JT, Oriowo MA, Mathew TC.
Indications of the mechanisms involved in improved sperm parameters by zinc therapy. Med Princ Pract. 2008;17(2):108-16
selenium
Number of studies
10
Years of studies
1998-2024
Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, Becerra-Tomás N, Vizmanos B, Bulló M, Salas-Salvadó J.
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 2018 Nov 1;9(6):833-848
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Yuan S, Zhang Y, Dong PY, Chen Yan YM, Liu J, Zhang BQ, Chen MM, Zhang SE, Zhang XF.
A comprehensive review on potential role of selenium, selenoproteins and selenium nanoparticles in male fertility. Heliyon. 2024 Jul 19;10(15)
Safarinejad MR, Safarinejad S.
Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study. J Urol 2009;181:741–51.
Alahmar AT, Sengupta P.
Impact of Coenzyme Q10 and Selenium on Seminal Fluid Parameters and Antioxidant Status in Men with Idiopathic Infertility. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2021 Apr;199(4):1246-1252. doi: 10.1007/s12011-020-02251-3.
Keskes-Ammar L, Feki-Chakroun N, Rebai T, Sahnoun Z, Ghozzi H, Hammami S, Zghal K, Fki H, Damak J, Bahloul A.
Sperm oxidative stress and the effect of an oral vitamin E and selenium supplement on semen quality in infertile men. Arch Androl. 2003 Mar-Apr;49(2):83-94\
Vitamin D3
Number of studies
13
Years of studies
2021-2025
Lerchbaum E, Obermayer-Pietsch B.
Vitamin D and fertility: a systematic review. Eur J Endocrinol. 2012 May;166(5):765-78
de Angelis C, Galdiero M, Pivonello C, Garifalos F, Menafra D, Cariati F, Salzano C, Galdiero G, Piscopo M, Vece A, Colao A, Pivonello R.
The role of vitamin D in male fertility: A focus on the testis. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2017 Sep;18(3):285-305
Yahyavi SK, Boisen IM, Cui Z, Jorsal MJ, Kooij I, Holt R, Juul A, Blomberg Jensen M. Calcium and vitamin D homoeostasis in male fertility. Proc Nutr Soc. 2024 May;83(2):95-108
Anagnostis P, Karras S, Goulis DG.
Vitamin D in human reproduction: a narrative review. Int J Clin Pract. 2013 Mar;67(3):225-35
Arab A, Hadi A, Moosavian SP, Askari G, Nasirian M.
The association between serum vitamin D, fertility and semen quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Surg. 2019
Blomberg Jensen M, Lawaetz JG, Petersen JH, Juul A, Jørgensen N.
Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Semen Quality, Reproductive Hormones, and Live Birth Rate: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018 Mar 1;103(3):870-881
Blomberg Jensen M, Gerner Lawaetz J, Andersson AM, Petersen JH, Nordkap L, Bang AK, Ekbom P, Joensen UN, Prætorius L, Lundstrøm P, Boujida VH, Lanske B, Juul A, Jørgensen N.
Vitamin D deficiency and low ionized calcium are linked with semen quality and sex steroid levels in infertile men. Hum Reprod. 2016 Aug;31(8):1875-85
DiTosto JD, Caniglia EC, Hinkle SN, Sealy N, Schisterman EF, Johnstone E, Mendola P, Mills J, Hotaling J, Ryan G, Mumford SL.
Target trial emulation of preconception serum vitamin D status on fertility outcomes: a couples-based approach. Fertil Steril. 2025 Feb;123(2):300-312
Myo-Inositol
Number of studies
8
Years of studies
2015-2024
Vazquez-Levin MH, Verón GL.
Myo-inositol in health and disease: its impact on semen parameters and male fertility. Andrology. 2020 Mar;8(2):277-298.
Ghaemi M, Seighali N, Shafiee A, Beiky M, Kohandel Gargari O, Azarboo A, Shafti V, Jafarabady K, Eshraghi N, Haddadi M, Akbari R, Panahi Z, Hantoushzadeh S.
The effect of Myo-inositol on improving sperm quality and IVF outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Food Sci Nutr. 2024 Sep 12;12(11):8515-8524
Li YY, Jia YP, Duan LY, Li KM.
Participation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium channel in the zona pellucida - and progesterone-induced acrosome reaction and calcium influx in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl. 2020 Mar-Apr;22(2):192-199
Calogero AE, Gullo G, La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Vaiarelli A.
Myoinositol improves sperm parameters and serum reproductive hormones in patients with idiopathic infertility: a prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study. Andrology. 2015 May;3(3):491-5.
Gulino FA, Leonardi E, Marilli I, Musmeci G, Vitale SG, Leanza V, Palumbo MA.
Effect of treatment with myo-inositol on semen parameters of patients undergoing an IVF cycle: in vivo study. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2016;32(1):65-8.
Canepa P, Dal Lago A, De Leo C, Gallo M, Rizzo C, Licata E, Anserini P, Rago R, Scaruffi P.
Combined treatment with myo-inositol, alpha-lipoic acid, folic acid and vitamins significantly improves sperm parameters of sub-fertile men: a multi-centric study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2018 Oct;22(20):7078-7085
Carnitines
Number of studies
14
Years of studies
2005-2025
de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG.
Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 4;5(5)
Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, Becerra-Tomás N, Vizmanos B, Bulló M, Salas-Salvadó J.
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 2018 Nov 1;9(6):833-848
Li KP, Yang XS, Wu T.
The Effect of Antioxidants on Sperm Quality Parameters and Pregnancy Rates for Idiopathic Male Infertility: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Feb 21;13:810242.
Khaw SC, Wong ZZ, Anderson R, Martins da Silva S.
l-carnitine and l-acetylcarnitine supplementation for idiopathic male infertility. Reprod Fertil. 2020 Dec 23;1(1):67-81.
Busetto GM, Agarwal A, Virmani A, Antonini G, Ragonesi G, Del Giudice F, Micic S, Gentile V, De Berardinis E.
Effect of metabolic and antioxidant supplementation on sperm parameters in oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia, with and without varicocele: A double-blind placebo-controlled study. Andrologia. 2018 Apr;50(3)
De Rosa M, Boggia B, Amalfi B, Zarrilli S, Vita A, Colao A, Lombardi G.
Correlation between seminal carnitine and functional spermatozoal characteristics in men with semen dysfunction of various origins. Drugs R D. 2005;6(1):1-9
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