ABSTRACT
Background: Anti TB drug induced hepatotoxicity has higher incidence in Indian population [11.5%] than western population [4.5%]. Antitubercular drug induced hepatotoxicity is mediated through oxidative and free radical damage to hepatocytes. Lagenaria siceraria [Bottle Gourd] is reported to have antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity. Hence in the present study we tested hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of fruit extract of L. Siceraria in anti tubercular drug induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: We administered antitubercular drugs alone and in combination with fruit extract of Lagenaria siceraria (EELS 100mg/kg and EELS 200mg/kg) in healthy albino rats by oral route for 15 days. On 16th day blood collection for biochemical analysis is done by cardiac puncture. Biochemical markers used are serum transaminases (SGPT/SGOT), serum alkaline phosphatase [ALP], total bilirubin, total protein, superoxide dismutase [SOD] and malondialdehyde [MDA]. Liver is dissected for histopathological examinations. Results: Groups that received EELS [100 mg/kg & 200 mg/kg], in combination with anti tubercular drugs, showed significant reduction [p value <0.001] in biochemical parameters for hepatotoxicity [SGOT, SGPT, ALP, Total bilirubin, Total protein] in comparison with group that received anti tubercular drugs alone. Combined treatment of EELS [100 mg/kg & 200 mg/kg] & Anti tubercular drugs showed significant reduction in oxidative stress [SOD & MDA, p<0.001] as compared to anti tubercular drug alone. Histopathological examination of liver showed grade I & grade 0 changes in combination group while grade IV changes in group receiving anti tubercular drugs alone. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of Lagenaria siceraria fruit possesses significant hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity in antitubercular drugs induced hepatotoxicity.