The effects of levamisole and albendazole on spermatological parameters, testosterone levels, and sperm DNA damage in Saanen bucks

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effect of levamisole and albendazole on spermatological parameters, testosterone levels, and sperm DNA damage in Saanen bucks. For this purpose, twenty-four Saanen bucks were divided into three groups as control, levamisole, and albendazole administration group. The control group received only water (20 ml, oral), the levamisole group received 7.5 mg/kg of levamisole (2 oral tablets once daily for 2 days) + water (20 ml, oral), and the albendazole group received 7.5 mg/kg of albendazole (1 oral tablet) + water (20 ml, oral). Semen and blood samples were collected from all animals, both before drug application (day 0) and within a 2-day interval after drug application between day 1 (day of the treatment) and day 11. Spermatological parameters were evaluated immediately after collection. Testosterone levels were also measured from the blood samples with ELISA. Sperm DNA damage was determined with comet assay. The present research showed that especially albendazole administration decreased spermatological parameters and levamisole administration decreased testosterone levels. Significant sperm DNA damage was seen after both albendazole and levamisole administration. As a result, albendazole and levamisole administration should be used carefully on Saanen bucks, especially during the breeding season.