Invivo Effect of Microgynon and Primolut-n on Plasma Sodium and Potassium of Wistar Albino Rat

Microgynon (0.15mg levonorgestrel and 0.03mg ethinylestradiol), is an oral contraceptives Primolut -N a mini pill (5mg norethisterone) were analysed for their in-vivo effects on albino rat plasma sodium and potassium levels. Studies showed that the drugs decreased sodium levels with microgynon showing the highest decrease of 29.85% at highest concentration level of 3.6μg /100g (94.00 ± 28.50mmol/l) (P < 0.05), followed by Primulot-N (102 ± 28.50 mmol/l). Investigations also revealed that the drugs decreased plasma potassium levels. Microgynon had the highest decrease of 88.88% for the highest dose of 3.60μg/100g body wt, while the lowest decrease of 22.22% was observed for the lowest dose of 0.36μg/100g).The sodium element plays an important role in salt and water balance in the body. The metabolism of sodium and potassium is closely linked with the maintenance of fluid balance and with the regulation of acid-base status, Elevated levels are related to acidosis as well as too much water crossing the cell membrane. The potassium element is found primarily inside the cells of the body. The random use of the drugs in our society today especially as most women abuse these drugs demands for more biochemical research to elucidate the effects of these drugs not only on the hormones but also on other biochemical parameters like the body electrolytes. This result indicates that laboratory tests are needed for women before using these drugs.