The Effect of Nitrofurantoin on Tonic Seizures Induced by MES in Male Mice

Abstract

Antibiotics are medicines that fight against bacterial infections and are usually considered safe drugs. However, they can simultaneously cause several adverse reactions. Nitrofurantoin, which is mainly administered for treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections, causes seizure reportedly. Therefore, further research is required to be conducted to simulate the case report situations and examine whether nitrofurantoin is the main factor leading to seizures. To do this, NMRI male mice (20-30 gr) were chosen and classified into different groups in both acute and chronic phases. Each phase contained mice treated with nitrofurantoin, phenytoin and the combination of both drugs as well as untreated control group. An Electroshock device was used to induce seizure in mice and then the effect of nitrofurantoin and phenytoin was examined in acute and chronic phases. Seizure induction in mice was examined 30 minutes and one week after injection in acute and chronic phases, respectively. Results indicated that THE (Tonic Hind-limb Extension) duration was different among the studied groups. Nitrofurantoin-injected mice were revealed to have a higher THE duration in comparison with control group, while phenytoin-injected group showed a lower THE duration. Furthermore, administration of nitrofurantoin and phenytoin combination reduced THE duration in both acute and chronic phases. Our conclusion is that nitrofurantoin can possess convulsive effects and cause seizure as a side effect.