Abstract:
This study evaluated the effects of concurrent administration of paracetamol and aqueous extract of
Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn calyx on paracetamol-associated hepatotoxicity in mice under sub-chronic and chronic conditions. It comprised of four groups of five mice each to reflect control, extract only, paracetamol only and concurrent administration of paracetamol and extract. Paracetamol (500mg/kg body weight) and
Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn calyx extract (250mg/kg body weight) were administered orally to experimental mice. Paracetamol toxicity was evidenced by significant increases (
P≤.05) in ALT, AST, ALP and GGT activities, total cholesterol and bilirubin levels, and decreased serum total protein and albumin levels. Also found were significant decreases (
P≤.05) in catalase and SOD activities, GSH level, and increase (
P≤.05) in MDA level, relative to control. Concurrent administration of paracetamol and extract proved effective in ameliorating paracetamol-associated liver injury in mice particularly at the sub-chronic phase where the values of many of the parameters returned to control.