NEPHROPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF CROCUS SATIVUS EXTRACT AGAINST GENTAMICIN AND/OR CEFTAZIDIME - INDUCED NEPHROTOXICITY IN RATS

Abstract

Gentamicin and Ceftazidime are commonly used antibiotics, but their use is limited by potential nephrotoxicity. In the present study, the nephroprotective activity of Crocus sativus was evaluated against Gentamicin and/or Ceftazidime-induced renal toxicity. Ethanolic extract of stigmas of Crocus sativus was administered (i.p.) once daily to albino rats 30 min. before administration of Gentamicin or Ceftazidime (i.m.) alone and in combination for 10 days. Nephrotoxicity was assessed by estimation of biochemical parameters, 24 hrs urine output, urinalysis, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), body and kidney weights; and  kidney histopathology were evaluated. Extract alone had no significant effect. In gentamicin-treated rats, body weights and urine output were significantly lower than control rats; along with marked proteinuria, significant increase in blood urea, serum creatinine, ESR and kidney weights with changes in serum electrolytes.  This nephrotoxicity was confirmed by histopathology. Ceftazidime induced similar but lesser damage. Their combination induced toxicity greater than individual drugs.  These changes were prevented by the extract of Crocus sativus - a promising nephroprotective agent.