This study examines the post-coital contraceptive potential of a methanolicextract of Abrus precatorius seeds using albino rats. The major constituent ofthis extract was found to be abrin, an amino acid derivative (68 % by weight).Furthermore, the extract had no steroidal constituents. Oral administrationof the extract using various dose and time -regimens (single dose of 150mg Ikgon day I of pregnancy; twice daily dose of 150mglkg on day 1 of pregnancy; asingle dose of 300mglkg, on day 1 of pregnancy; and 300mglkg dose from day1-7 of pregnancy) did not suppress fertility significantly. However, a tendencytowards foetal aggregation was evident. It is concluded that the polar fractionsof this seed (presumably abrin), has very little potential as a post-coital contraceptiveagent.
Author Biographies
W. D. RATNASOORIYA, Departments of Zoology and *Chemistry,
University of Colombo, Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
Departments of Zoology and *Chemistry,
University of Colombo, Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
A. S. AMARASEKERA, Departments of Zoology and *Chemistry,
University of Colombo, Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
Departments of Zoology and *Chemistry,
University of Colombo, Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
U. V. D. S. ANANDA, Departments of Zoology and *Chemistry,
University of Colombo, Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
