Acetazolamide induced Skeletal Anomalies in Wistar Rat Fetuses

Abstract

Aim:To induce skeletal anomalies in wistar rat fetuses by acetazolamide, using double stain technique for fetal rat skeleton with Alizarin Red S and Alcian blue. Method:Adult pregnant rats were randomly divided into two groups. Control group received 0.25ml of normal saline and treatment group received 80 &160 mg/kg/b. wt. of acetazolamide on 8th , 9th and 10th day of pregnancy respectively. Pregnancy was terminated on 16th , 18th , 20th day. All fetuses’ skeletal deformities were studied by Double staining technique for cartilage and bone. Results: severity of defects were linearly related to drug dosage. Most of the defects were observed on right forepaw, as dosage increased the weight of mothers, number and weight of fetuses was reduced. Conclusion: increase in dosage of acetazolamide induces limb abnormalities mostly right forepaw.