Reversible inhibition of testicular function by danazol plus testosterone enanthate in rabbit

A combination of danazol (15 mg/kg b.w./day; oral) plus TE (5 mg/kg b.w./15 days; i.m.) was investigated for reversible inhibition of testicular function in rabbit. Testicular histology and biochemistry were studied before, during (30, 60 & 75 days) treatment and 120 days of recovery. A conspicuous decrease in testicular weight and volume with slight increase in body weight was observed. Gradual decrease in spermatogenesis accompanied with reduced tubular diameter and nuclei diameter of Leydig and Sertoli cells was observed. A significant elevation in testicular cholesterol, total lipids, glycogen and phosphatases with depleted concentrations of total proteins, RNA and fructose was noticed. Sialic acid did not change significantly. Libido was not affected. All parameters returned to normal level after 120 days of recovery. In conclusion, the combination therapy induced reversible inhibition of spermatogenesis without loss of libido.