Effect of Sub- Chronic Administration of Omeprazole on Hematological and Biochemical Parameters in Fischer Male Rats

Abstract

Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is believed to have various potential adverse events. Omeprazole is a part of PPIs most commonly prescribed worldwide; it irreversibly binds to the H+-K+ ATPase enzyme system in the gastric parietal cells to reduce the secretion of H+ ions into the lumen of the stomach. The main objective of the current work is to assess the adverse effects of omeprazole medication on certain hematological and biochemical parameters in rats who were on treatment for three months. We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study between March 2024 and July 2024. 20 male Fischer rats (Albino) aged two months, weighting (200-250g) was obtained from the animal house located in the Libyan center for medical research, in the city of Alzawia, and were enrolled in this study. Rats were divided into two groups, the first group was the control (Normal saline group) (n=10), second was administered 40mg/kg omeprazole via IP route (n=10) once daily. Complete blood count and biochemical parameters were measured for both groups. The treatment group had remarkably significant reductions in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) (p<0.001) and the platelets indices. Omeprazole elevated the cholesterol level (p<0.001) and triglyceride (p<0.001) as well as low-density lipoprotein (p<0.01). However, no impact was found with high density lipoprotein (HDL) (p>0.05). Blood urea levels (p<0.001) were significantly increased in the treatment group treated with omeprazole medication. The results also showed that the treatment group had a significant decline in calcium levels (p<0.001) than that of the control group. Prolonged use of omeprazole might result in adverse effects on hematological profile, particularly RBCs and their indices leading to the development of anemia in patients on this medication. Furthermore, it might result in disturbances in biochemical profile, levels of minerals, and vitamins as consequences of affected absorption.