Effect of selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor [sertraline] on some reproductive aspects of mature male rats and plasma trace elements concentration

ABSTRACT

Administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRI] interferes with male reproduction and trace element concentrations. The mechanism of action of antiserotonin [sertraline] is presumed to be linked to its ability to inhibit the neuronal reuptake of serotonin. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effects of sertraline on reproductive system of mature male rats and on some plasma trace element concentrations. Twenty mature male rats were divided into 2 equal groups [10 rats/group], one group was administrated with sertraline [10mg/kg.b.w.]via stomach tube for 70 days while the other group administrated 1ml saline and considered as control groups. Results showed that seminal vesicles were significantly [P<0.05] decreased in weight. Also, sertraline resulted in significant [P<0.05] decrease of sperm motility [30%] compared to [70%] in control group. Histological sections prepared from sertraline treated rats showed degenerative and necrotic changes with few spermatocytic giant cells. Seminal vesicles were activated in sertraline treated rats and increased eosinophilic secretions. Plasma concentration of testosterone was significantly [P<0.05] decreased in sertraline treated rats as compared to its level in control rats. Moreover plasma concentration of iron in sertraline treated rats showed significant [P<0.05] decrease compared to control group, while plasma concentration of copper in sertraline treated rats showed significant [P<0.05] increase, but was concluded that serotonin inhibitor adversely affect the reproductive aspects of male rats and induced alteration in some plasma trace element concentration