Hepatoprotective Activity of Pongamia Pinnata Leaves on Antitubercular Drugs (Isoniazid & Rifampin) Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Hepatoprotective effect of an ethanolic extract of Pongamia Pinnata on antitubercular drugs (isoniazid and rifampin) induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Methods: The experiment used five groups of male wistar rats, each with six individuals. The two control groups were given gum acacia and a mixture of isoniazid and rifampin. The two test groups received 200 and 400 mg/kg of an ethanolic extract of the leaves of Pongamia Pinnata, respectively. The fifth group was given silymarin (50mg/kg, orally). The concentrations of serum Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), tissue Malondialdehyde (MDA) & thiols were calculated. One-way ANOVA was used for statistical examination, monitored through Tukey's test.

Results: When rats were given a mixture of antitubercular drugs and a high dosage (400 mg/kg) of an ethanolic extract of Pongamia Pinnata, blood enzyme levels were lower than when they were given antitubercular drugs alone. The co-administration of a high dose of Pongamia Pinnata extract with antitubercular drugs reduced MDA levels and elevated thiol levels considerably (p˂ 0.05). These biochemical marker levels, however, were not adjusted.

Conclusion: In rats, Pongamia Pinnata encompasses a partial protective effect against the hepatotoxicity caused by antitubercular drugs at high doses.