Exposure to crack cocaine induces genotoxicity and degenerative changes in multiple organs of Wistar rats

Crack cocaine is a widely consumed illicit substance worldwide, with Brazil identified as its largest consumer. This study evaluated its harmful effects on various organs in rats.Twenty-four male Wistar rats were distributed into four groups: G1-exposed to 25 mg of crack cocaine; G2-50 mg; G3-100 mg; and a control group with no intervention. The experimental groups inhaled crack cocaine smoke once daily for five days.Histopathological changes were observed in the liver of G3 and in the kidneys of all exposed groups. Increased 8-OHdG immunoexpression occurred in the kidneys of G1 and G2. Ki-67 immunoexpression in the liver and kidneys was elevated in G1 and G2. GST-P-positive foci increased in G1 and G2. Micronucleated cells in bone marrow were significantly higher in all exposed groups. In the liver, hepatocytes with micronuclei increased in G1 and G2, while binucleated cells were more frequent in G3. Karyolysis increased in G2 and G3, and karyorrhectic hepatocytes were more frequent in G1 and G2.These findings demonstrate that crack cocaine inhalation induces degenerative and genotoxic effects in the liver, kidneys, and bone marrow of Wistar rats, supporting its potential carcinogenicity and underscoring the need for targeted public health interventions.