The effects of oral ketoconazole and griseofulvin on the fertility of male rabbits

Abstract

Objectives: To investig ate possible side effects of ketocona zole a nd g riseofulvin on fertility of clinica lly healthy male rabbits.

Design: Randomized controlled experimental study.

Animals: Thirty mature male rabbits.

Procedures: Rabbits were randomly allocated into three equal sized g roups (10 a nimals each). The first g roup served as a control group (received no treatment), the second group received griseofulvin (25 mg / kg B.W) orally for 30 days, and the third group received  ketoconazole (50 mg / kg B.W) ora lly for 30 da ys. Semen samples were collected after 1 da y, 1 week a nd 2 weeks post-administration  to determine sperm motility, % of live and dead sperms, total sperm abnormalities and sperm cell concentration. Two weeks  post-administration, testes a nd epididymides were removed for histopathological examination.

Results: Both drugs produced a significant reduction in the serum testosterone level, sperm cell concentra tion, percent of live sperms and percent of sperm motility.  

Conclusion and clinical relevance: Ketoconazole and griseofulvin have a negative impact on fertility of male rabbits, and the effect is more pronounced with ketoconazole.