Abstract
Background: Echinochrome (Ech) is the active ingredient in the Histochrome drug, which possesses strong antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activity. Objective: The present work aimed to characterize the malformations induced by moderate and high dose of Ech during pregnancy. Methods: In this study, eighteen (18) female pregnant rats were assigned into 3 groups (6 rats/ group); control group, low dose Ech (0.1 mg/kg) and high dose Ech (1 mg/kg). Results: The high dose of Ech caused a significant decrease in the number of embryos, uteri weight, body weight gain, placenta weight, and embryo weight and length. Also, the high dose led to a significant increase in serum AST, ALT, ALP, urea and uric acid of mothers. Conclusion: Our findings revealed the first teratogenic effects of high dose Ech. The teratogenic mechanism of Ech works through induction of the hypoglycemic condition in pregnant rats.
Highlights
In developed countries, the use of prescription drugs is common during pregnancy with a prevalence ranging from 27 to 99%, depending on the data sources used and medication included [1]
Our findings revealed the first teratogenic effects of high dose Ech
The teratogenic mechanism of Ech works through induction of the hypoglycemic condition in pregnant rats
Summary
The use of prescription drugs is common during pregnancy with a prevalence ranging from 27 to 99%, depending on the data sources used and medication included [1]. Current evidence suggests that between 65%-94% of women take at least one prescription drug during pregnancy [2]. Echinochrome (Ech) is a natural quinone pigment isolated from sea urchin shells and spines that possess many biological activities [6]. Ech is the active substance in the drug Histochrome which is widely used in Russia. Histochrome drug is used in ophthalmic practice to treat intraocular hemorrhage, diabetic retinopathy, dystrophies, central retinal vein thrombosis, and post-traumatic hemorrhage in Russia [7]. Echinochrome (Ech) is the active ingredient in the Histochrome drug, which possesses strong antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activity
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
