Effect of different doses of cyclobenzaprine-HCl on the reproductive health of female Wistar rats

Background
Women often experience significant burdens both at home and in their professional lives, which can lead to physical and mental strain. To manage these challenges, medications such as cyclobenzaprine-HCl, originally developed as a tricyclic antidepressant but reintroduced as a muscle relaxant, are sometimes used. Its effectiveness in treating muscle spasms, localized pain, and limited range of motion in acute musculoskeletal conditions has been well documented.
Objective
The objective of this study was to explore the potential consequences of cyclobenzaprine-HCl on reproductive health by assessing its influence on female Wistar rats.
Materials and methods
The study was conducted on 18 adult female Wistar rats, divided into three groups: a control group receiving distilled water and two treated groups with two doses − a low-dose group receiving 1.5 mg/kg of cyclobenzaprine-HCl and a high-dose group receiving 3 mg/kg, administered orally for 30 days. We assessed the impact of cyclobenzaprine-HCl on serum hormonal levels (progesterone, estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone), oxidative stress markers (glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde), histopathological changes in ovaries and uteri, and DNA stability using the comet assay.
Results and conclusion
The study revealed that cyclobenzaprine-HCl caused hormonal imbalances distinguished by significant increase in estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, and significant decreases in progesterone and luteinizing hormone levels. Dissruptions in oxidative stress markers were characterized by elevated malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione levels. Histopathological abnormalities included degeneration, deformed follicles, congested blood vessels, and necrosis in the ovarian tissue. In addition, diffused eosinophil infiltration, pyknotic nuclei, glandular hyperplasia, necrosis, and hypercellularity in the uterine tissue. DNA instability was observed in both dosage groups as evidenced by fragmented DNA in the shape of comets. These findings underscore the potential reproductive toxicity of cyclobenzaprine-HCl in female rats, suggesting a need for caution in its use considering its possible adverse effects on reproductive health.