The Alterations of Zebrafish Development, Neurological, and Cardiovascular Function Caused By Dextromethorphan

In this study, 40 zebrafish embryos were raised in various Robitussin solutions (0.02 mg/mL, 0.002mg/mL, 0.0002mg/mL, instant ocean control) to determine the effects the common ingredient dextromethorphan (found in many over-the-counter medicines) had on the development of fish. Previous studies on the effects dextromethorphan on humans have been conducted, and results have found that the common ingredient can block neurological receptors, altering brain functions . Experiments conducted on rodents found similar results to that of humans, meaning neurological functions were changed, causing unusual responses to movement and differences in development. The study took place over the course of a week, and offered significant results on how dextromethorphan changed zebrafish development. Embryos raised in higher concentrations of dextromethorphan showed slower signs of development, deformities, and alterations in neurological functions when compared to controlled zebrafish. The results from the conducted experiment can give better insight as to how common cold medicines containing this ingredient can affect human development when taken at high doses.