The Effects of Shisheh on the Hormonal Axis Hypothalamus - Pituitary - Thyroid function in adult male Wistar Rats

Studies show that amphetamines can influence the hypothalamic pituitarythyroid axis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Shisheh (met-amphetamine) on serum levels of T3, T4 and TSH in male rats. In this laboratory experimental study 25 male Wistar rats were randomly divided to control, saline receiving, 2mg/kg, 4mg/kg, and 6mg/kg of Shisheh receiving groups of 5 rats in each. The injection was carried out intraperitoneally once a week for 6 weeks. After serum collection, T3, T4 and TSH levels were measured using ELFA method and the data were statically analyzed using ANOVA. Serum level of T3 and T4 was not significantly changed in rats receiving 2mg/kg of Shisheh compared with control animals. Serum level of T3 and T4 was signifintly increased in animals receiving 4mg/kg and 6mg/kg dose of Shisheh compared with the control rats (P<0.05, P<0.001, respectively). Serum TSH level was significantly increased in rats receiving mg/kg, 4mg/kg, and 6mg/kg of Shisheh compared with control animals (P<0.001). Our results indicate that Shisheh injection can enhance thyroid gland activity via acting on pituitary-thyroid axis, resulting in increased serum T3, T4 and TSH.