Investigating the teratogenic potential of diclofenac sodium on chick embryos: A warning for pregnant women

Abstract

Teratogenic and embryotoxic effect of diclofenac sodium (DS) on different developmental stages of the chick-embryos was investigated by examining different parameters such as its mortality rate, hatching, morphological measurements, weighing its internal organs and calculation of different indices. Experiment was divided into four trials with different dose (0.1 mL, 0.2 mL, 0.3 mL in groups A, B, and C, respectively and group D received 0.3 mL saline solution (0.9% NaCl) and group E remained un-injected) administration and observation. Results of first and second trial showed statistically (p0.05) when compared with the control groups. In trial 4, forelimb, hindlimb length, heart weight, CSI and HSI were statistically (p0.05). The mortality rate was increased with increase dose of DS and also affected the hatching. DS effect on chick embryos can be applied to humans because the early development of mammals and birds are closely related. So, it was concluded that DS should be used with caution during pregnancy especially during first trimester of pregnancy.

Keywords

• Chick embryos
• Development
• Diclofenac sodium
• Mortality
• Pregnancy