Journal
HUMAN REPRODUCTION
Volume 16, Issue 11, Pages 2390-2393Publisher
OXFORD UNIV PRESS
DOI: 10.1093/humrep/16.11.2390
Keywords
diclofenac; teratogenicity; whole rat embryo culture
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
BACKGROUND: Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, commonly used by reproductive age women for the treatment of a variety of conditions. However, there is limited information regarding the teratogenic effects of this drug. METHODS: The effect of diclofenac on the developing embryo during the critical period of organogenesis was investigated by using a whole rat embryo culture model. Embryos were exposed to various concentrations, of diclofenac and scored for growth and differentiation at the end of the culture period. RESULTS: Total developmental score and score for caudal neural tube, flexion and hindlimb were significantly lower in embryos exposed to high concentrations of diclofenac (7.5 and 15.0 mug/ml), but no difference in these parameters was observed when embryos were exposed to low concentration of diclofenac (1.5, 2.5 and 5.0 mug/ml). No significant differences in yolk sac diameter, crown-rump length and number of somites was found between embryos in the experimental and the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Our study has demonstrated that diclofenac exerts direct teratogenic effects on rat embryos. Until more is known about the effects of diclofenac (especially in moderate to high doses) in women of reproductive age, we suggest its use should be treated with caution.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available