Sub-chronic and chronic toxicity evaluation of 7-methylxanthine: a new molecule for the treatment of myopia

Myopia (nearsightedness) is a vision disorder with a blurring of far objects, affect millions worldwide. 7-methylxanthine (7-MX) is a molecule that is presently under clinical investigation for the treatment of myopia. In the present study, we have investigated sub-chronic and chronic toxicity of 7-MX in comparison to other clinically used methylxanthines i.e., caffeine and theobromine as per OECD guidelines 408 and 452. 7-MX was administered orally for 90 days at three different doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg for sub-chronic toxicity evaluation, and at a limit dose of 1000 mg/kg in 180 days chronic toxicity evaluation in rats. In sub-chronic treatment, 7-MX showed no mortality and signs for toxicity in any group, whereas 10% and 40% mortality with signs for toxicity were observed in caffeine and theobromine treated groups, respectively. A similar, safety profile was observed with 7-MX in 180 days of chronic toxicity study. Further, to confirm any morphological changes in organs; ultrasound and X-rays analysis were performed and no changes in the size of organs, cyst formation, fluid retention, or crystal formation was observed. Thus, the repeated dose study of 7-MX for 180 days may augment the possibility of using 7-MX clinically for the safe and effective treatment of myopia.