Effects of hydralazine on pregnant rats and their fetuses.

Abstract

We conducted this study to assess potential teratogenic or fetotoxic effects of in utero hydralazine exposure in the rat. Pregnant rats were treated with hydralazine (0, 15, or 30 mg/kg/day) by either gavage or subcutaneous injection during gestation days 8 through 19, inclusively. Surviving animals were killed, uterine contents examined, and fetuses evaluated by Wilson's method for teratologic examination. Oral administration did not affect maternal weight gain or fetal or placental weights. Subcutaneous administration decreased fetal and placental weights but only in dams given the highest dose subcutaneously; significantly increased maternal mortality and reduced maternal weight gain were also observed. There was no increased incidence of fetal anomalies in any group. Hydralazine does not have teratogenic or fetopathic effects when given to rats in dosages that are nontoxic to the mother.