Exploring the hepatoprotective effects of silymarin in experimentally induced- diclofenac sodium toxicity in rabbits

Abstract

The study was aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of varying doses of silymarin against liver damage caused by diclofenac sodium in rabbits. Silymarin, extracted from the Silybum marianum plant, is known for its antioxidant properties and is used to treat liver diseases. The rabbits (n=40) were divided into 4 groups. Group A served as the control (with vehicle solution), group B, as toxin control with diclofenac sodium (50mg/kg intra-peritoneally), group C received both diclofenac sodium and protective dose of silymarin (50mg/kg orally), while group D was administered diclofenac sodium along with higher dose of silymarin (100mg/kg orally). At the study's conclusion, rabbits were humanely euthanized and blood samples were collected for analysis. Enzymes such as Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), direct bilirubin, serum urea, and total bilirubin were measured. The study revealed that higher dose of silymarin (100mg/kg) was more effective in reducing serum enzyme levels compared to lower dose, indicating stronger hepatoprotective effect. This suggests silymarin's potential as the therapeutic agent against liver damage and toxicity induced by substances like diclofenac sodium