The Effect of Tarantula cubensis (Theranekron) on Some Reproductive Parameters in Male Rats

Background: Tarantula cubensis (theranekron), obtained from the poison of Cuban Tarantula, is a homeopathic drug frequently used in animal health. Objectives: The effect of theranekron on reproductive parameters in male animals is unknown. In this study, the effect of theranekron on male reproductive parameters was investigated. Methods: Three different groups of rats were created: control (n=8) (no application), theranekron I (n=8) (subcuteneous injection of 0.3 mg/kg on days 0, 5, and 10), and theranekron II (n=8) (subcuteneous injection of 0.3 mg/kg on days 0, 5, and 10). Control and theranekron I groups were sacrificed at the end of the 4 weeks, and the theranekron II group was sacrificed at the end of the 6 weeks. Sperm motility, density, abnormal rate, DNA damage, and testicular histopathology were examined. Results: No statistical difference was observed in the parameters examined between the study groups (P 0.05). It was determined that the theranekron did not change sperm motility, density and spermatozoa ratio, also no histopathological changes, and sperm DNA damage.Conclusion: There is no harm in using theranekron in male animals during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons.