The effect of sodium valproate on the biochemical parameters of reproductive function in male albino Wistar rats

OBJECTIVE To assess the effects of sodium valproate on intratesticular testosterone and lactic dehydrogenase level in rats. METHODS Male Wistar rats (12 weeks old) were treated with sodium valproate and sacrificed at the end of the 2(nd), 4(th), 5(th), 7(th), 10(th) and 15(th) week, after the last exposure to sodium valproate. The testes were removed, weighed and processed for biochemical analysis. RESULTS The intratesticular testosterone level was significantly (P<0.001) reduced in 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg treated rats. The intratesticular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level was significantly (P<0.001) increased by valproate in a time dependent manner. CONCLUSION Valproate causes reversible change in intratesticular testosterone and LDH level.