Haematological and Kidney Function Indices of Piliostigma thonningii Leaf Extract Administration Following Pefloxacin Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Aims: The study investigated haematological and kidney function indices of Wistar rats administered Piliostigma thonningii ethanol leaf extract after being induced with therapeutic doses of pefloxacin (400 mg/5 mL).

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medical Biochemistry, Cross River University of Technology, Okuku Campus, between August 2013 and June 2014.

Methodology: Twenty four male Wistar rats weighing between 185-200 g were assigned into four groups. Administration was orally, with groups A (control), B and C receiving 0.5 mL each of distilled water, P. thonningii extract and pefloxacin respectively, while group D was co-administered P. thonningii extract and pefloxacin (1:1). The rats were sacrificed after 21 days and blood collected for study.

Results: P. thonningii extract co-administration with pefloxacin produced a significant (P<0.05) increase in hematocrit (HCT), lymphocytes and neutrophils and a significant (P<0.05) decrease in platelets count compared with the rest of the groups. The effects of pefloxacin co-administration with P. thonningii extract on serum electrolyte and kidney function indices were not clear-cut, however creatinine levels were normal.

Conclusion: Synergistic and antagonistic effects of pefloxacin co-administration with P. thonningii leaf extract were demonstrated. These effects when properly harnessed could be useful in the management of anaemic conditions, immune responses as well as bone demineralization relating to drug toxicity.