The Effects of Furzaolidone on the Reproductive Ability of the Male Turkey , ,

FURAZOLIDONE, N (5 nitro-2-furfurylidene)-3-amino-2-oxazolidone, a member of the nitrofuran series of antibacterial compounds, has been found to be effective in controlling Salmonella and Histomonas infections in turkeys. This drug could, therefore, become an important preventative and therapeutic agent for the turkey industry. If, however, furazolidone has any deleterious effects on the reproductive ability or growth of the turkey, future use of this compound would be limited. The present study was designed to provide information concerning the effects of this drug on testis function and body weight in the male turkey. Several of the nitrofuran derivatives have been shown to affect adversely testicular function in mammals. Atrophy of rat testes, following high dosages of FuradroxylR were reported by Prior and Ferguson (1950); Friedgood, Danza and Boccabella (1952); and Nelson and Steinberger (1952). Degeneration of the germinal elements was complete with the exception of the spermatogonia which were apparently uninjured. Following withdrawal …