Taurine and N-acetylcysteine reverse reproductive and neuroendocrine dysfunctions in levetiracetam-treated epileptic male rats

Abstract

ABSTRACT Reproductive neuroendocrine dysfunction is becoming common among patients with epilepsy, Notably, possible indication of taurine and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the management of reproductive impairment has increased over the years. However, scientific evidence to supplement our understanding of the impact of taurine and NAC in protecting reproductive neuroendocrine cells is lacking. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the possible effects of taurine and NAC on levetiracetam-induced reproductive neuroendocrine dysfunction in epileptic rats. The study was done in two experimental protocols: drug alone and reversal. In the drug-alone protocol, rats in groups 1–6 received treatment orally for 21 days, respectively. In the reversal-protocol, the animals in group 1, received saline (2.5 mL/kg) and served as normal control, while epilepsy was induced in animals in groups 2–5, after which groups 3–5 received levetiracetam (150 mg/kg), levetiracetam (150 mg/kg) + NAC (100 mg/kg), levetiracetam (150 mg/kg) + taurine (150 mg/kg) respectively for 14 days. Pilocarpine alone or in combination with levetiracetam significantly decreased neuro-endocrine related factors, hormonal profile, and spermatogenesis, whereas treatment with NAC and taurine reversed the effects induced by pilocarpinethrough neuro-endocrine-related factors and hormonal modulation mechanism.