Developmental exposure to fenproporex: reproductive and morphological evaluation

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Fenproporex is a widely used anorectic medication, particularly in countries like Brazil.
• Understanding its safety profile regarding maternal and fetal health is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the maternal toxicity of fenproporex.
• To assess the teratogenic potential of fenproporex during different exposure periods in mice.

Main Methods:

• Female mice were exposed to fenproporex (15 mg/kg) via gavage during three periods: pre-mating, gestation (GD 0-14), or both.
• Maternal toxicity was assessed through open-field and forced-swimming tests, weight gain, and gravid uterus weight.
• Teratogenicity was evaluated by examining postimplantation loss, fetal viability, sex ratio, intrauterine growth, and fetal malformations.

Main Results:

• Fenproporex increased maternal ambulation but did not affect mobility in the forced-swimming test.
• No significant differences in maternal weight gain, postimplantation loss, fetal viability, or sex ratio were observed.
• A reduction in implantations and an increase in fetuses with small kidneys and cervical ribs were noted.
• Gravid uterus weight was reduced, but intrauterine growth was not impaired.

Conclusions:

• Fenproporex exhibited low maternal toxicity and teratogenic potential at the tested dose and exposure durations.
• The drug may negatively impact implantation and lead to specific fetal developmental abnormalities.