Hepatoprotective effect of Pippali Ghrita, an Ayurvedic Formulation against Anti-Tubercular Drug Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Combination chemotherapy of Isoniazid, Rifampicin, and Pyrazinamide is the preferred regimen for successful treatment of Tuberculosis (TB). The major complication of otherwise useful Anti-tubercular treatment (ATT) drugs is hepatic damage. There is lack of a definite effective treatment for the same in modern medicine. In view of this, the hepatoprotective activity of an Ayurvedic formulation, Pippali Ghrita (PG), was evaluated in anti-tubercular drug induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. ATT drugs, viz., Isoniazid, Rifampicin, and Pyrazinamide were administered for 30 days to induce hepatotoxicity. Co-administration of PG in study group and Silymarin in standard control group was done for same duration. Hepatotoxicity was assessed on basis of ponderal parameters (body and liver weight) and biochemical parameters, viz., liver function parameters (Aspartate transaminase and Alanine transaminase), and oxidative stress parameters (Malondialdehyde and Superoxide dismutase). Results demonstrated significant increase in body weight and significant reduction in the liver weight, in study group and standard control group as compared to ATT control group. Likewise, significant reduction in liver function parameters and Malondialdehyde levels, with increase in Superoxide dismutase activity were observed, when compared to the ATT control group. The results indicated that co-administration of Pippali Ghrita for 30 days along with ATT prevented anti-tubercular drugs induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rat model.