Developmental outcome after exposure to cyclooxygenase inhibitors during pregnancy and lactation

The developmental toxicity of non-selective (ibuprofen, piroxicam, tolmetin) and selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors (DFU) was evaluated in rats. Compounds were administered separately from the eighth gestational to the seventh lactational day. After spontaneous delivery, the weight, length and number of fetuses were determined. The digital radiography and double-staining were used to evaluate the skeleton morphology and mineralization in 7-day-old pups. Maternal toxicity was also assessed. Although decrease in pup weight and length was found, no teratogenic effects were revealed. Decrease in the absolute bone optical density was noted in the groups exposed to the middle and highest doses of tolmetin and ibuprofen, respectively. Increase of the absolute bone density was observed in the groups treated with the middle and the lowest doses of piroxicam, as well as in pups born after the expected day. Non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitors (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAID) affected pups growth and influenced mineralization of the lumbar vertebrae.

► The developmental toxicity of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors was studied during pregnancy and lactation in rats.
► Non-selective COX inhibitors affected pups growth and influenced the mineralization of the lumbar vertebrae.
► However, lack of teratogenicity and insignificant increase of developmental variations were found.