Effect of imidacloprid on growth performance and haemato-biochemical parameters in male Wistar rats

Chronic toxicity of repeated oral administration of imidacloprid (IM) in male Wistar rats for 6 weeks was assessed. Twenty four rats were divided into four groups of six rats each. Group I (control) received corn oil (0.1 ml/100g). Groups II, III and IV received imidacloprid in corn oil @ 30 mg/kg, 60 mg/kg and 90 mg/kg, respectively. The blood samples were collected from rats at the time of sacrifice and analyzed for haematological and biochemical parameters. The study showed that haematological parameters hemoglobin, packed cell volume, differential leukocyte count though apparently decreased but were statistically non-significant. The total leukocyte counts were decreased in a dose dependent manner. Imidacloprid produced hyperglycemia which was dose dependent. Imidacloprid treated rats showed significant increase in serum alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, total protein, albumin, globulin, BUN and creatinine. The acetylcholinesterase levels were decreased but it was statistically non-significant. The testosterone levels were decreased significantly in IM treated rats and was dose dependent. It was concluded from the present study that oral administration of imidacloprid in male wistar rats is mainly associated with the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity at a dose much lower than the LD50 in rats i.e. @30 mg/kg.