Hepatorenal Features following oral administration of Primidone in Adult WistarRats

Abstract

Primidone is an anticonvulsant used for the treatment of seizures. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect on the histomorphology of the liver and kidneys of adult Wistar rats. Fifteen (15) adult Wistar rats were randomly assigned into three groups of five (5) rats each. Group A was the Control given free access to standard rat chow and water, treatment groups B and C received 75 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg per body weight of primidone representing low (Group B) and high dose (Group C) regimen respectively for four weeks. At the end of the treatment period, the rats were euthanized using chloroform and blood sample were obtained from the inferior vena cava for biochemical assessment of hepatic and renal function parameters. The liver and kidneys were harvested concurrently and processed following standard histological techniques for microscopic assessment. The histoarchitecture of the liver and kidneys of rats treated with primidone had features consistent with normal morphology, there were alterations observed. Biochemical assessment of liver function parameters shows significant (p<0.05) increase in Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) Alanine transaminase (ALT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Total protein, Direct Bilirubin and Indirect Bilirubin levels. Multiple comparison between groups using least square difference showed statistically significant dose dependent increase (p<0.05) in the mean serum AST, ALT and ALP levels. Renal function tests showed no significant change in mean serum creatinine level, however mean serum level of electrolytes (sodium, chlorine and potassium) showed a significantly increased (p<0.05) across treatment groups when compared to control. There was no pathological changes in the liver and kidneys following oral treatment with primidone, however, there was increased level of liver enzymes, and alterations in renal function parameters as evident in elevated electrolyte levels