Effect of citalopram on sex hormones and testicular histomorphology in male albino rats

Abstract

Introduction: Citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly used as a first-line treatment for depression. However, the potential effects of Citalopram on testicular histo-morphology and hormone levels have not been extensively studied. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Citalopram on the microscopic structure of the testes and the levels of serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in male albino rats. Aims: The primary objective of this study was to assess the effects of Citalopram on testicular histo-morphology using the Johnson scoring system. The secondary objective was to measure the levels of serum testosterone, LH, and FSH in rats treated with varying doses of Citalopram. Methodology: A total of 25 healthy male albino rats were divided into five groups: control, group I, group II, group III, and group IV. The rats in groups I to IV were orally administered 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, and 40 mg of Citalopram, respectively, while the control group received oral distilled water. The dosages were adjusted based on the suggested doses for humans and scaled according to the rats' weight.