Background: Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of drug induced nephrotoxicity. The study aimed to
determine the nephroprotective and ameliorative effects of
Carica papaya
seed extract in paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity
in rats.
Objectives: To carry out phytochemical screening of
Carica papaya, measure serum urea, creatinine and uric acid and describe
the histopathological status of the kidneys in the treated and untreated groups.
Methods: Phytochemical screening of the extract was done. Thirty two adult male Wistar rats were divided into four
groups (n= 8 in each group). Group A (control) animals received normal saline for seven days, group B (paracetamol group)
received normal saline, and paracetamol single dose on the 8th day. Group C received
Carica papaya extract (CPE) 500 mg/
kg, and paracetamol on the 8th day, while group D, rats were pretreated with CPE 750 mg/kg/day,and paracetamol administration
on the 8th day. Samples of kidney tissue were removed for histopathological examination.
Results: Screening of
Carica papaya showed presence of nephroprotective pytochemicals. Paracetamol administration resulted
in significant elevation of renal function markers. CPE ameliorated the effect of paracetamol by reducing the markers
as well as reversing the paracetamol-induced changes in kidney architecture.
Conclusion: Carica papaya contains nephroprotective phytochemicals and may be useful in preventing kidney damage induced
by paracetamol.
