Ameliorative Role of Alpha Lipoic Acid on Paracetamol Induced Renal Toxicity and Oxidative Stress in Rats

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Background: Paracetamol, is the most widely used over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic medication in the world, which has no adverse effect at therapeutic dosages. But in high doses causes renal failure. Objectives: The current study was designed to investigate paracetamol toxic effects upon the kidney and oxidative stress after repeated oral dose and evaluate possible protective effect of alpha lipoic acid when co-administered with and after paracetamol. Methods: forty eight white albino rats were divided equally into four groups. Each group was subdivided into two sub groups A & B. Group I received gum acacia suspension. Group II received Alpha lipoic acid (50mg/kg) orally. Group III received paracetamol (1 gm/ kg orally) for 4 weeks. Group IV received paracetamol and alpha lipoic acid at the same doses. Sub groups A were euthanized after 4 weeks, while sub groups B were euthanized after 8 weeks. Blood was collected for evaluation of kidney functions and oxidative stress markers. The kidneys were preserved for histopathological examinations. Results: The study proved that repeated administration of paracetamol induced disturbed kidney functions and oxidative stress. But this toxic effects decline markedly when alpha lipoic acid was co-administered with paracetamol. And more improvement occurs when ALA was administered for another 4 weeks after stoppage of paracetamol. Conclusions: The present study concluded that repeated paracetamol administration has nephrotoxic and oxidative stress effect and alpha lipoic acid has a protective effect against such harmful effects.