Pseudoephedrine HCl Exposure-Induced Developmental Toxicity in Regenerating D. tigrina Planaria

Abstract

As a precursor for the illicit drug methamphetamine, there is a compelling need to investigate the potential adverse effects of PSE. While existing research has addressed the effects of chronic drug overdose using the model organism, Dugesia tigrina planaria, pseudoephedrine (PSE) has yet to be tested. This study aims to investigate the direct impact of PSE on planarian regeneration, assessing how varying doses influence regeneration, morphology, and motility as a model for wound healing in humans. A regeneration assay was conducted over a 10 day period where each planarian was decapitated to separate the bi-lobed brain from its ventral nerve cord prior to being exposed to PSE solutions in dosages of 30 mg, 120 mg, and 240 mg. A negative correlation between PSE concentration and rate of regeneration was observed. Notably, planaria exposed to the 30 mg solution exhibited a 56.66% increase in mortality rates compared to those exposed to the 240 mg solution. This study concluded that concentrations of PSE pose extensive harm in D. tigrina planaria although lower concentrations possess a greater rate of lethality in terms of faster absorption, therefore constituting significant risk towards humans when abused in excessive fast-absorbing quantities. These findings have practical implications for pharmacologists, pharmacy personnel, and patients alike by urging for a greater level of caution towards PSE drug abuse.