Evaluation of the effects of ivermectin administered in childhood period in sexual behavior of rats adults

Abstract

Ivermectin is a macrocyclic lactone used in the treatment of parasitic infections in humans and widely used in veterinary medicine as endectocide. In mammals, several evidences indicate that interact with the macrocyclic lactones chloride channels mediated by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It is known that the GABAergic system is involved in the manifestation of sexual behavior. Previous studies from our group about the behavioral effects of acute administration of macrocyclic lactones showed impairment in sexual behavior in rats, and these effects associated with the central GABAergic system. Recently, another study in our group, noted that ivermectin administration in rats reduced testosterone levels without interfering with sexual motivation and penile erection males, while in females impaired sexual behavior. Thus, continuing our studies and to contribute to the understanding of the physiological and pharmacological mechanisms involved in the effects of ivermectin in the reproductive sphere, the present project aims to evaluate the effects of administration of 0.2 mg/kg of ivermectin, orally, in the sexual behavior of adult rats treated during childhood. (AU)