Acyclovir-Induced Nephrotoxicity: The Protective Benefit of Curcumin

Abstract

Objective: Nephrotoxicity may decrease the clinical use of acyclovir (ACV). Curcumin (CUM) is used traditionally as treatments for some diseases. This study examined the protective effect of CUM against ACV-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: Forty-five male Wistar rats (240–250g) randomized into nine groups (n=5) were used. Group 1(Placebo control) received water (0.2mL/day) intraperitoneally (i.p) whereas group 2 (Solvent control) received corn oil (0.2mL/day) per oral (p.o) for 7 days. Groups 3-5 received CUM (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day p.o) for 7 days. Group 6 received ACV (150 mg/kg/day i.p) for 7 days. Groups 7-9 were pre-treated with CUM (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day p.o) before the treatment with ACV (150 mg/kg/day i.p) for 7 days. On day 8, the rats were anesthetized; blood samples were collected and evaluated for serum biochemical indices. The k idneys were weighed and assessed for histology and oxidative stress indices. Results: ACV produced no significant (p>0.05) effects on the body and kidney weights of rats when compared to control. ACV caused significant (p