Study of safety and toxicity of niclosamide as a topical anti schistosomal agent

ABSTRACT

In this study, topical Niclosamide was tested for safety and toxicological, hematological and biochemical parameters. Fifty albino rats [25 males and 25 females] weighing between 140 to 180 grams were used. 1% lotion was used for painting the tail and the abdomen of rats three times weekly for one week in case of acute toxicity study and for 6 weeks in case of chronic toxicity. Animals in all groups were tested for allergic reactions, body weight, food consumption, activity and mortality. Hematological tests were performed, including liver function tests SGPT and SGOT, albumin and globulin and A/G ratio, kidney function tests as serum creatinine and urea were also carried out together with cholesterol level. The results revealed that topical Niclosamide is free from any serious toxicological effects