Abstract

Background:
Misuse of dexamethasone as a synthetic glucocorticoid anti-inflammation drug is prevalent because of its affordability and therapeutic benefits, despite frequent disregard for proper usage guidelines.

Aim:
This study investigated the effects of dexamethasone administration during the second trimester of pregnancy, which is the success or failure factor of final stage fetal development on progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and endometrial thickness in Wistar rats.

Methods:
The study involved 120 pregnant female Wistar rats divided into four treatment groups as follows: C as the control without injection, T1 receiving dexamethasone doses of 0.36 mg/day, T2 receiving dexamethasone doses of 0.72 mg/day, and T3 receiving dexamethasone doses of 0.75 mg/day, which received injection treatment for seven consecutive days (days 8–14 of pregnancy). At the end of the study period, the following parameters were measured: progesterone, LH, and endometrial thickness.

Results:
Dexamethasone significantly decreased progesterone levels, LH, and endometrial thickness (p < 0.05). Progesterone levels in the control group differed significantly from all treatment groups (T1, T2, and T3). T1 was distinct from the control, T2, and T3 and no significant difference between T2 and T3. The LH levels of the control group were not significantly different from those of T1, but they differed significantly from those of T2 and T3. Similarly, T1 was comparable to the control but significantly different from T2 and T3. The endometrial thickness analysis revealed significant differences across all groups, with the control group consistently differing from T1, T2, and T3.

Conclusion:
Dexamethasone administration during the second trimester caused adverse hormonal imbalances and disrupted endometrial development in pregnant rats. These findings underscore the risks of glucocorticoid misuse during pregnancy. Proper adherence to medical guidelines is crucial for minimizing the detrimental effects on reproductive function and fetal development. This study emphasizes the importance of monitoring and regulating dexamethasone use, particularly in pregnant individuals, to safeguard maternal and fetal health.

Key words: Dexamethasone, Corticosteroids, Hormone balance, Reproduction, Responsible Consumption and Production