Propranolol and Prazosin Have a Positive Effect on the Sexual Performance of Female Three-Spot Gourami

Background: Sexual function is one of the most important aspects of life and is likely to be affected by the side effects of antihypertensive drugs. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of propranolol and prazosin on the sexual performance of female three-spot gourami. Methods: In this study, 84 female three-spot gourami were randomly divided into seven groups, including a control and six experimental groups. The experimental groups were injected with prazosin or propranolol at doses of 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg for twenty days. Finally, the histological morphology of the ovaries and sex hormone levels in the experimental groups were examined. Results: Our experiments showed changes in the oocyte stages, progressing to the cortical and vitellogenesis stages in the treated groups. Additionally, sex hormone levels increased in the groups exposed to that of propranolol and prazosin compared to the controls. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) exhibited a trend similar to the hormonal changes. The weight and length of the fish remained unchanged across the different groups. Conclusion: Our findings indicated that propranolol and prazosin, at the mentioned doses and treatment duration, had a positive effect on the sexual function of female three-spot gourami.