Effects of Pregabalin on Postnatal Development of The Kidney in Albino Rat’s Offsprings

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground: Pregabalin is used for the treatment of neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and migraine. Objectives: This study was designed to assess the effect of pregabalin on the developing kidney of albino rat’s offspring. Material and methods: Twenty pregnant rats were divided into two equal groups: group I (control) group and group II (treated) group which received pregabalin (150 mg/kg/day) from the first day of gestation up to 21 days after delivery. Offsprings were selected to be sacrificed on the 2nd postnatal day and at the 21st postnatal day, kidney specimens were prepared for light and electron microscopic examination. Results: Maternal pregabalin administration disrupted the development of the kidney in offspring with a significant increase in urea and creatinine level. Histological examination of the kidney offsprings at the 2nd postnatal day revealed irregular thickening of the glomerular basement membrane, fusion, and effacement of podocyte’s foot processes, and tubulointerstitial injury. Examination of the kidney offsprings at the 21st postnatal day revealed thickened distorted glomerular basement membrane, broadening, and fusion of the foot processes, and vacuolar degeneration of tubules. Conclusion: Maternal pregabalin might disturb the renal development in the offspring. So, it should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation.