Experimental induction of hepatomas, mammary tumors, and other tumors with metronidazole in noninbred Sas:MRC(WI)BR rats.
Metronidazole, a chemotherapeutic agent against trichomonas infection, was tested for carcinogenicity in noninbred Sas:MRC(WI)BR rats. Three groups were given the drug for life at dose levels of 0.6%, 0.3%, and 0.06% in a powdered diet. The incidence of mammary tumors (P less than 0.020) and hepatomas (P less than 0.050) increased significantly among females given the highest dose (0.6%). Also, the rates of Leydig cell tumors of the testes (P less than 0.040) and pituitary adenomas (P less than 0.040) were statistically significant among males given the highest dose (0.6%). Results are discussed in light of a possible hazard of this drug to humans.
D000818:Animals; D002273:Carcinogens; D005260:Female; D008114:Liver Neoplasms, Experimental / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008325:Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008795:Metronidazole / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000633:toxicity*; D009374:Neoplasms, Experimental / Q000139:chemically induced; D010911:Pituitary Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced; D051381:Rats; D013736:Testicular Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced
D002273:Carcinogens; D008795:Metronidazole