Prenatal Benzydamine Exposure Induces Fetal Growth Restriction and Maternal Oxidative Stress in Rats

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Reproductive Science

Background:

• Benzydamine, a topical NSAID, is sometimes misused orally for psychoactive effects.
• Limited data exist on benzydamine safety at high doses, especially during pregnancy.
• Unplanned pregnancies are more common among psychoactive substance users, highlighting a knowledge gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the maternal and fetotoxic potential of benzydamine in a rodent model.
• To provide preliminary data for future reproductive toxicity studies.
• To assess benzydamine's impact on fetal development and maternal health markers.

Main Methods:

• Pregnant Wistar rats were administered benzydamine throughout gestation.
• Maternal biochemical parameters (hepatic, renal, metabolic, oxidative stress) were analyzed.
• Fetal viability, body weight, and macroscopic abnormalities were evaluated post-cesarean section.

Main Results:

• No significant changes in routine maternal biochemical parameters were observed.
• Benzydamine exposure led to reduced fetal body weight.
• Increased maternal plasma malondialdehyde levels indicated elevated oxidative stress.

Conclusions:

• Benzydamine may negatively impact fetal growth.
• This effect appears to be mediated by indirect maternal toxicity and oxidative stress.
• Direct teratogenic effects of benzydamine were not indicated in this study.