Comparing The Effects Of Sildenafil Citrate And Dexpanthenol On Wound Healing: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Objective: Wound healing is a serious problem that causes high morbidity. Different pharmacological agents have been studied to accelerate wound healing and to prevent necrosis and ischemia, and still continue to work. Topical dexpanthenol is widely used in both wound healing and various dermatological diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of topical sildenafil citrate and topical dexpanthenol on wound healing in rats. Material and Methods: A total of 30 female Wistar Albino rats, weighing 200-250 gr, were used in the study. Rats were divided into 3 groups. A linear 2 cm full-thickness incision was made in the rat’s skin of the back. Steril saline irrigation was applied to all animals in the control group. Dexpanthenol was administered locally to the wounds of the rats in the second group, and 10% sildenafil citrate in the third group. Wound dimensions were measured on the 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 14th, and 21st days. The full-thickness skin, including the incision, were removed for histopathological examination on the 21st days. Results: We believe that sildenafil citrate can be used as a topical cream for wound healing, as it leads to significant reduction in wound size. Conclusion: Although there was no statistically significant difference, we observed that the wound healing was better in the group where sildenafil citrate was applied locally on the wound.