Haemostatic Alterations after Sildenafil and Tramadol Administration in Rats

Haemostatic parameters constitute measurable indices in the haemostatic system used to assess the functionality of the coagulation system of an individual to establish a state of health or disorder. This study evaluated haemostatic parameter such as platelets count, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelets distribution width (PDW), prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in 22 Male Albino Rats grouped and orally treated daily for three weeks with Sildenafil (4 mg/200 g.bwt), Tramadol(6 mg/200 g.bwt) and Sildenafil/Tramadol combination (4+6 mg/220 g.bwt). Rats were sacrificed by cardiac puncture and 5 mls of blood collected for the analysis of the parameters using Sysmex haematology analyser and Agape Diagnostic reagents kits. Results obtained shows a statistically significant increase in platelet count, PT and APTT compared with control across the various groups (p<0.05). A statistically significant decrease was observed in MPV, PDW in Sildenafil+tramadol group, significant decrease in platelets distribution width for Tramadol group when compared with control (p<0.05). No significant difference was observed in the mean platelets volume and platelet distribution width in Sildenafil group. A comparison of Sildenafil+tramadol and Sildenafil groups shows no statistically significant difference in all the parameters analysed. There was also no significant difference in the mean platelets count, PDW, PT and APTT when Sildenafil+tramadol and Tramadol groups were compared (p<0.05). However, a statistically significant increase was seen in platelets count when Sildenafil+tramadol and tramadol were compared (p<0.05). Sildenafil and tramadol causes significant increase in platelets count, prolonged PT and APTT following single/combined daily administration in rats. Further research on these parameters, assessment of liver function, and measurement of intrinsic and extrinsic pathway coagulation factors in human taking this medication is recommended.