New research has found a large correlation between the use of antidepressants and sperm count. The study, led by Dr. Peter Schlegel of Cornell Medical Center, carefully monitored two male patients for two years. The two men were treated with either citalopram or sertraline. It was then found that their sperm counts dropped significantly, in fact approaching zero. When the antidepressants were stopped, their sperm counts rebounded to normal levels. The researchers also found this phenomenon in a dozen other patients, although not as dramatically as in these two cases. The selective 5-hydroxytryptamine reuptake inhibitor class of antidepressants includes the most popular Prozac and Seroquel. Previous studies have linked this class of drugs to problems with ejaculation and impotence. There is a strong association between selective 5 hydroxytryptamine reuptake inhibitors and fertility, with this drug causing a significant reduction in sperm count and vigor. This problem may be related to damage to the nerves that innervate the vas deferens. The results of this new study urge men who use selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors to be followed closely by their doctors to determine if they are experiencing this side effect. Some of the men using STRIs may be considering having children. The results of this trial may have important implications for them.