Modification of the mentrual cycle in rhesus monkeys by reserpine.

Abstract

8 rhesus monkeys were given reserpine 1 mg/kg (maximal tranquilizing dose) daily except Sundays 5 monkeys for 8-19 days and 3 monkeys for 100 days or more. Observations were made of cycle length ovulation by rectal palpation histology of ovary and uterus and vaginal lavage. Except for the first menstruation expected after the summer anovulatory period menstruation was delayed 47-140 days in the 3 monkeys given chronic reserpine. In 2 monkeys given reserpine from Cycle days 8-18 ovulation was normal but in 3 treated on Days 2-10 or 12 ovulation was delayed at least until Day 23. Cycle length was 15-39 days in 94% of the colony.