Potentiating effects of phenobarbitone on the induction of cirrhosis in rats by carbon tetrachloride

ABSTRACT

The potentiating effects of phenobarbitone sodium on the experimental induction of liver necrosis and cirrhosis by carbon tetrachloride [CCL4] were studied in 50 rats. CC14 was given by intraperitoneal injection, phenobarbitone in drinking water. Thirty rats received both agents; and 10 each received only one agent. In 7 of 10 animals given CC14alone, moderate cirrhosis without ascites developed within 6 to 8 weeks; the other 3 rats died before fourth week. All animals receiving both agents and surviving for as long as 5 to 8 weeks developed severe cirrhosis with marked proliferation of the bile ducts within 2 months. Most of these animals also had ascites. Five rats given only phenobarbitone remained healthy, although their livers increased in weight