Interceptive effect of Lapachol in rats.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Reproductive Science

Background:

• Lapachol is a naturally occurring naphthoquinone with demonstrated therapeutic potential against Chagas disease and malaria.
• Its established medicinal properties necessitate a thorough investigation into its safety profile, particularly concerning reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reproductive toxicity of Lapachol in a pregnant Wistar rat model.
• To determine the effects of Lapachol administration on maternal and fetal outcomes during gestation.

Main Methods:

• Pregnant Wistar rats were administered Lapachol (20 mg) or a vehicle control via oral gavage from the 8th to the 12th day of gestation.
• Maternal body weight, food intake, ovarian weight, and corpora lutea counts were recorded.
• Fetal parameters, including live/dead fetuses and resorption sites, were assessed post-delivery.

Main Results:

• Administration of Lapachol resulted in a 100% fetal and embryonic mortality rate.
• No significant adverse effects were observed in the maternal rats regarding body weight or food consumption.
• Ovarian parameters and corpora lutea counts did not show significant alterations.

Conclusions:

• Lapachol exhibits a potent interceptive effect in rats, leading to complete pregnancy termination.
• While maternal toxicity was not evident, the profound embryotoxic/fetotoxic effects highlight significant reproductive risks.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanism of action and assess risks in other species.