Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Science - Department of Zoology

Pregabalin (PGB) [(S)-3-(Aminomethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid 3-isobutyl GABA], as a new anticonvulsant drug is structurally related to gabapentin. However, it is a novel gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analog which is virtually inactive at GABA receptors. Objective: to assess the histological effects of Pregabalin on albino rat fetuses during the pregnancy period. Twenty pregnant rats (Rattus norvegicus) weighing (190-200) were divided into the two groups. The control group was administered oral dose of distilled water and the treated group was administered oral dose of PGB (0.3 mg/kg) from the 6th day to the 20th day of gestation. At 20th day of gestation the females were sacrificed. Administration of PGB significantly reduced the fetal body weight and crown-rump length in comparison with the control group. Moreover, PGB treatment caused malformations that summarized as severe growth retardation, open eyes and skeletal abnormalities. Examination of fetal liver, kidney and brain of pregnant rats treated with PGB showed histopathological changes. It has been found that gestational usage of PGB may cause fetal risk with intrauterine growth retardation, hepatic injury and nephrotoxicity.The pregnant women should be used PGB if its benefits more than the potential risks

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