Co-administration of Atorvastatin with Piperine Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Wistar Rats: Histological, Biochemical, Hormonal and Sperm Parameter-Based Evidences

Abstract

Atorvastatin (ATR) is a synthetic competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A. A reductase that impedes the rate-limiting phase of cholesterol production. Piperine (PIP) is an alkaloid present in the fruits of black pepper (Piper nigrum), a widely utilised and commonly employed spice. Piperine enhances the absorption of atorvastatin, and both substances are recognised for their male antifertility effects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of co-administration of atorvastatin and piperine on the reproductive capacity of male Wistar rats. We acquired twenty male rats and partitioned them into four groups, each comprising five rats. Group I: control; Group II: provided atorvastatin (8 mg/kg BW); Group III: administered piperine (10 mg/kg BW); Group IV: co-administered atorvastatin (8 mg/kg BW) and piperine (10 mg/kg BW) for a duration of 28 consecutive days. The results of our investigation indicated that the co-administration of piperine and atorvastatin modified the histoarchitectural structures of the seminal vesicles, epididymis, and seminiferous tubules, and significantly reduced the weight of these reproductive organs. In rats administered atorvastatin and piperine concurrently, there was a substantial (p < 0.05) reduction in sperm count and viability. ELISA analysis of blood testosterone levels indicated a substantial reduction in rats co-treated with ATR and PIP. The co-administration of ATR and PIP resulted in reproductive toxicity via influencing hormonal, metabolic, histological, and sperm-related parameters.