In the present study, the effects of Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, on rat submandibular gland structure and function were examined in an acute experiment. Cipro was administered intraperitoneally at various doses (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg). Pure submandibular saliva was collected intraorally by micropolyethylene tubes under anaesthesia using a dissecting microscope. After collection of saliva, submandibular glands were removed and weighed. Flow rate, amylase activity, total protein and electrolyte concentrations were measured in saliva. Concentrations of DNA and protein were measured in the gland. All doses of Cipro (20, 40, 80 mg/kg) reduced salivary flow rate. Concentrations of salivary total protein and calcium and gland DNA were reduced by all doses of Cipro. Treatment by Cipro (80 mg/kg) induced an increase in salivary sodium and potassium concentrations. Histopathological examination of glands revealed that Cipro at doses of 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg induces morphological changes in the glands including irregular shape of the cerous and mucous bobbles, lack of nucleus in some cells, damage of the cytoplasmic and cell walls and presence of oncocytes in secretory ducts. It is concluded that Cipro inhibits rat submandibular gland functions consistent with structural damages to the gland that might be observed as a side effect in humans. Properties of fluoroquinolones to alter intracellular cAMP and their ability to suppress DNA and protein synthesis of acinar cells might be possible reasons for observed changes.
