Effect of Foeniculum vulgare and Metoclopramide on the Mammary Glands of Lactating Mus musculus

Medications affect lactation by affecting all stages of mammary gland development and function. In particular, medications may interfere with normal mammary gland development, the hormonal environment of the lactating mammary gland, milk secretion, and nutrient delivery to lactating mammary cells. This study aimed to determine the effect of Foeniculum vulgare and metoclopramide on mammary gland development in lactating female Mus musculus miceThe present study was conducted in the animal house of the College of Veterinary Medicine and the laboratories of the College of Science at Tikrit University during the period from 10/27/2024 to 1/27/2025, where 80 female mice were used in the experiment for 20 days and divided into four of groups as follows: The first group (control): included 20 lactating females (T1) given normal food and water. The second group (T2): included 20 lactating females given Foeniculum vulgare. The third group (T3) included 20 lactating females given 2 mg metoclopramide. The fourth group (T4) included 20 lactating females given 10% Foeniculum vulgare and 2 mg metoclopramide. Histological examination of the lactating groups showed increased lobule and alveoli size, with larger cavities than in the control group. The results showed increased mothers' weights during the dosing period, suggesting the materials used in the study were more effective than in the control group. Among all groups, the highest increase in mothers' weight was found in the group given fennel and metoclopramide. The current study concluded that the Foeniculum vulgar extract and metoclopramide had positive effects on the mammary glands by increasing their secretion. The drug had a greater effect than the extract, and the best results were observed in the group treated with the extract and the drug together.