ABSTRACT
Background: One of the most effective 2nd line scabicidal agent lindane [gamma -HCH] is still used in many countries. It is moderately hazardous and causes severe physiological dysfunction in various organ systems
Method: The effects of [gamma -HCH] on hair growth of male orytolagus Cuniculus Rabbit was studied in variable doses of 5,10,15 and 25mg/kg body weight for short term [up to 14 days] and also long term [up to 30 days] exposure. In addition general conditions and also some hematoenzymatic parameters were recorded in unexposed and exposed [treated] animals
Results: There was gradual increase in loss of hair with increasing dose of Lindane. With 5mg/kg body weight mild hair loss in neck and trunk, 10mg/kg body weight mild patchy loss of hair in neck and trunk region, 15 mg/kg body weight marked patchy loss of hair in neck region and moderate patchy loss of hair in trunk region, 20mg/kg body weight patches of almost complete loss of hair all over the body was observed. In addition, dose and time related anorexia, diarrhea, behavioral changes [weakness, restlessness, excitement and hyperactivity], bleeding tendency [observed while taking blood] and enzymatic changes [significantly increased serum alkaline phosphatase and SGPT] were also observed
Conclusion: The pharmacological use of gamma -HCH, even as a 2nd line scabicidal agent should be strictly banned owing to its toxic effect on various systems of body