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Effects of propranolol during pregnancy and development of rats. I. Adverse effects during pregnancy
Insights
High doses of propranolol given to pregnant rats resulted in smaller neonates and reduced litter sizes. This suggests potential risks of propranolol use during pregnancy, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Propranolol is a beta-blocker commonly prescribed for various cardiovascular conditions.
- Its use during pregnancy has raised concerns due to potential effects on fetal development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of propranolol administration on pregnant rats and their offspring.
- To evaluate the impact of propranolol on fetal growth, litter size, and placental development.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant rats were administered varying daily doses of propranolol (100 and 150 mg/kg/day).
- Key parameters assessed included neonate size, litter size, maternal weight gain, and placental weight.
Main Results:
- Propranolol treatment led to the birth of small-for-dates neonates.
- Significant reductions in litter size and maternal weight gain were observed at higher doses.
- Placentas from rats treated with higher propranolol doses weighed approximately 30% less than controls.
Conclusions:
- Propranolol exposure during pregnancy in rats is associated with adverse developmental outcomes, including intrauterine growth restriction.
- The findings suggest a potential mechanism involving reduced nutrient transport across cellular membranes, leading to fetal malnutrition.
- These results indicate a need for reevaluation of propranolol treatment protocols during pregnancy in both animal models and human clinical practice.
Abstract:
Pregnant rats, treated with high doses of propranolol, gave birth to small for dates neonates. Litter size was affected in daily doses of 100 and 150 mg/kg/day. Propranolol markedly influenced the gain in weight normally observed in pregnant rats. The placentas of the rats which received the higher doses of propranolol weighed about 30% less than normal placentas. Pregnant rats, treated with propranolol, gave birth to small for dates neonates. This effect is possibly the result of a drug-induced reduction in transport across cellular membranes, resulting in malnutrition. Since similar effects were reported in humans, treatment with propranolol during pregnancy should be further reevaluated in laboratory animals.