الفهرس 
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Abstract
Introduction: Pregabalin (PGB) is an analog of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Pregabalin has been approved for the treatment of the neuropathic pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, spinal cord injury, and recently fibromyalgia. It also possesses anxiolytic and anticonvulsant activities. There are increasing reports worldwide that suggest misuse of PGB as a recreational drug with alarming abuse potential, especially among the youth. Aim of the Work: This study was conducted to evaluate the neurotoxic effects of pregabalin and compare it with tramadol through the use of open field tests, histological analysis, immunohistochemical analysis and quantification of dopamine receptors ‘gene expression. Material and Methods: Thirty male albino rats were included in this experimental study, and they were randomly allocated into three equal groups; group I (normal saline), group II (Tramadol addicted), and group III (pregabalin addicted). All rats received the commenced drugs for 1 month. Open-field tests were performed on the day of scarification, and after that, cortical samples were taken for immunohistochemical analysis and quantification of dopamine receptors’ gene expression. Results: The addicted groups showed a significant decrease in weight gain at the end of the study. Open-field testing showed the upper hand of controls regarding all of the tested parameters. Tramadol has a more negative impact on the locomotor parameters compared with pregabalin. Both drugs induced relatively low dopamine-1 receptors (D1Rs) expression to dopamine-2 receptors (D2Rs), mimicking the schizophrenia model. Conclusions: Both tramadol and pregabalin were associated with neurotoxic effects in male albino rats. These effects were less noticed with pregabalin. It is suggested that long-term abuse may end in psychosis.