Toxicity of methotrexate on fertility and internal organs of male albino rats

ABSTRACT

Fifty male adult albino rats with average weight of 220 - 250 gm were used in this study. Animals were divided into four test groups and a control group each comprised of ten rats. Test animals received methotrexate [MTX] in a therapeutic constant low dose of 7.5 mg/kg/ week for eight weeks. The effects of the drug were assessed by histopathological, biochemical and spermatozoal examination immediately after its stoppage and within one month recovery period. Significant histopathological changes in internal organs of albino rats associated with marked functional biochemical abnormalities were observed. Also there was marked alteration in sperm count, motility and increased percentage of abnormal forms. Gradual improvement was observed during the recovery period