Effect of Plumbum Metallicum on Neuromuscular Dysfunction in PTZ-Induced Seizure Model Using Hind Limb Tonic Extension Test

Background: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures and associated neuromuscular dysfunction. Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizure models are widely used to study generalized tonic-clonic seizures and post-ictal motor abnormalities. Plumbum metallicum, a homeopathic metal-based preparation, is traditionally indicated for progressive paralysis and neuromuscular degeneration, but experimental evidence supporting its effects remains limited.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Plumbum metallicum on PTZ-induced neuromuscular impairment using the Hind Limb Tonic Extension (HLTE) test in mice.

Methods: Male Swiss albino mice were divided into control, PTZ, standard (diazepam), and Plumbum metallicum treatment groups (3C, 60C, and 200C potencies). Animals received the assigned treatment for 14 days, followed by PTZ administration (80 mg/kg, i.p.) on day 14. Neuromuscular dysfunction was assessed using the HLTE test, graded on a standardized 0–4 scale based on the severity of tonic hind limb extension.

Results: PTZ administration produced marked neuromuscular rigidity with elevated HLTE scores. Plumbum metallicum treatment demonstrated a potency-dependent reduction in HLTE scores, with higher potencies (30C and 200C) showing greater improvement compared to lower potency (6C). The standard treatment group exhibited expected attenuation of tonic extension.

Plumbum metallicum showed a measurable modulatory effect on PTZ-induced neuromuscular dysfunction, as assessed by HLTE. These findings suggest its potential role in preclinical seizure research and support further investigation into homeopathic metal-based interventions using validated experimental models.

Dr. Avishkar Zagday is an MD (Homoeopathy) with a focused interest in experimental and preclinical research, particularly in neurological and behavioral models. He is the Founder of Roots to Recovery Clinic, Mumbai, and has conducted multiple animal studies exploring behavioral outcomes in seizure and neurodegenerative disease models using standardized experimental paradigms.