Histological changes following prolonged oral administration of sildenafil citrate in diabetics rats

Abstract

Diabetes is a cluster of metabolic disorders reflected by abnormal hyperglycemia that causes chronic microvascular, macrovascular, and neuropathic diseases.Sildenafil citrate is
widely used to dilate penile arteries, particularly in patient with erectile dysfunction which suggest that it may also dilate pulmonary arteries in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of sildenafil citrate on heart and lung tissues of diabetic rats. Method: The study was performed using forty-two rats (42)
weighing between 150-200 grams. The rats were grouped into 7 groups (A-G) of six (6) rats per 2 group. Wound area of 1.5 by 1.5 cm was created at the dorsal surface of each rat under sedation with ketamine and lignocaine. Type I diabetes was induced using a single dose of Alloxan monohydrate at dose rate of 130 mg/kg. Sildenafil citrate was administered at a dose rate of 50 mg/kg orally daily for 21 days and 10 international units of insulin was administered intraperitoneal to the control group once. At the end of 21 days lung and heart tissues were collected for histological studies. Results: The results revealed moderate thickening of interstitial demonstrated by congestion of blood vessels and oedema of the lungs. The heart muscles were swollen with loss of striation in myocardial fibers. Conclusion: Prolonged oral administration of sildenafil citrate caused appreciable pulmonary and cardiovascular damage to diabetic rats. Therefore, precautionary measures are needed when treating diabetic patients with pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases.