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Ivermectin reduces sexual behavior in female rats
N Moreira1, M M Bernardi2, H S Spinosa1
1Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Neurotoxicology and Teratology
|April 1, 2014
Summary
Ivermectin (IVM) reduced female sexual behavior intensity in rats, impacting the lordosis reflex. This antiparasitic drug
Area of Science:
- Neuropharmacology
- Animal Behavior
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Ivermectin (IVM) is an antiparasitic drug used in domestic animals.
- In mammals, IVM acts as a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor agonist.
- GABA is a neurotransmitter crucial for regulating female sexual behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of therapeutic (0.2 mg/kg) and high (1.0 mg/kg) IVM doses on female rat sexual behavior.
- To assess these effects under both physiological (estrus) and pharmacological (estradiol valerate-induced) conditions.
Main Methods:
- Female rats at estrus or hormonally induced to sexual receptivity were used.
- Ivermectin was administered 15 minutes prior to behavioral observations.
- Lordosis reflex intensity and frequency were quantified.
Main Results:
- Both therapeutic and high IVM doses significantly decreased the intensity of the lordosis reflex.
- The percentage of females exhibiting exaggerated lordosis was reduced by IVM.
- The overall number of females displaying lordosis remained unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Ivermectin treatment, even at therapeutic doses, diminishes female sexual behavior and lordosis reflex execution.
- Findings suggest potential neurological side effects of Ivermectin on reproductive behaviors in mammals.
- Results may aid in mitigating adverse drug effects in veterinary practice.
