TOXIC EFFECTS OF PARACETAMOL ON MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM OF ADULT RABBITS

Abstract

Harm from medications can arise from unintended consequences as well as medication error. Paracetamol is a frequently used analgesic and anti-pyretic drug which is widely available without a prescription. Medical professionals have concluded that long-term use, or large doses of Paracetamol can cause harm to the body or even death, although many mistakenly believe it to be completely harmless.   The aim of the work is to evaluate the toxic effects of paracetamol on male reproductive system of adult rabbits as a type of medication errors. Fifty four adult male rabbits were utilized and equally divided into 3 groups received daily oral low and high therapeutic dose of paracetamol for 3 weeks. Blood testosterone and seminal analysis were assessed every week for testicular toxicity and sections were prepared for light and electron microscope examination. A significant decrease of blood testosterone and seminal quality impairment were found in the group which received high repeated therapeutic doses of paracetamol and induced harmful effect on the histological structure of seminiferous tubules. These data imply that paracetamol has the potential for reproductive toxicity and should be used cautiously especially when the large prolonged dose is indicated. So, can patient sue physician for malpractice if the physician prescribed paracetamol in high therapeutic doses or for a long period?