The Antiepileptic and Antidepressant-Like Effects of Dexpanthenol in Female Swiss Albino Mice

Abstract

Objective: Oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms of epilepsy and depression. Based on our information, behavioral effects of dexpanthenol in animals have not yet been demonstrated. Dexpanthenol itself is a topical medicine to restore skin barrier against infections caused by microorganisms which also stimulates the peristaltic movements in the gut when administered parenterally; however since it is cheap and easy to use with minor side effects, the main idea of the current research was to evaluate whether dexpanthenol has an antiepileptic and/or antidepressant-like effects. Methods: A group of female Swiss albino mice (25-30 g) were injected with dexpanthenol (ip, N = 8) or saline (ip, N = 8), and 30 min later pentylenetetrazole (65 mg/kg, ip)-induced convulsions were determined for 30 min. In addition, another group of mice were again injected with dexpanthenol (500 mg/kg, ip, N = 8) or saline (ip, N = 8) and immobility time were evaluated in the forced swim test. Finally, mouse righting reflex test was used to assess the possible changes in motor coordination. Results: Our data showed that dexpanthenol, at the dose of 500 mg/kg displayed significant antiepileptic and antidepressant-like effects without affecting motor behavior. Conclusions: A common low-cost topical drug for various skin disorders that can also be given parenterally for motility regulation has an antiepileptic and antidepressant-like activity in mice.