Investigating the nephrotoxic effects of medroxyprogesterone in female albino rats

Abstract

Progestins, though integral to various bodily functions as endogenous hormones, have been associated with adverse effects when administered exogenously in excessive amounts. This study investigates the impact of medroxyprogesterone (MePro) on kidney function, examining biochemical parameters, histology, and oxidative stress markers. Methods. Twenty healthy adult female Albino rats were assigned to four groups: Group 1 consisted of 10 rats before MePro treatment, Group 2 comprised the same rats 8 weeks after intramuscular MePro administration (3.5 mg/week), Group 3 served as the control group, and Group 4 represented the same rats as Group 3 at the conclusion of the study. Serological and histological markers of renal damage, as well as parameters of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, MDA) and antioxidant status (total antioxidant status, TAS), were investigated in female albino rats following MePro administration. Results. MePro administration resulted in notable increases in weight, urea, creatinine, and MDA levels, alongside a decrease in TAS compared to baseline levels (p < 0.001). Conversely, the control groups showed no significant changes in these parameters over time. Creatinine levels and oxidative stress markers in Group 2 were notably higher than those in Groups 3 and 4 (p < 0.001). Post-MePro administration, renal histopathology revealed significant deposition of hyaline casts in the tubular lumens, along with vascular lesions, hemorrhage, and inflammation. Conclusions. The decline in kidney function, antioxidant status, and propensity for renal injury associated with MePro use underscore its potential renal toxicity.