Hepatoprotective Effect of Crocus sativus on Amiodarone-Induced Liver Toxicity

Aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Crocus sativus in amiodarone-induced hepatotoxicity in rabbits.

Methods: Study was divided into 2 major groups; acute group and prophylactic group and randomized control trial was used. Acute group was further divided into five sub groups (n=5) i.e. control group (group I), amiodarone group (group II), saffron group (group III), amiodarone + aqueous saffron group (group IV), and amiodarone + ethanolic saffron group (group V). Hepatotoxicity was induced by intraperitoneal administration of 200 mg/kg amiodarone solution thrice a day in group II, IV and V. Aqueous extract of saffron (100 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally once a day in group III and group IV. Ethanolic extract of saffron (100 mg/kg) was given to group V. However saffron extracts were administered half hour before the amiodarone first dose in both the groups. Aqueous extract of saffron (100 mg/kg) was given to rabbits for seven days as prophylactic therapy and then 200 mg/kg amiodarone solution was injected thrice a day in order to observe the hepatoprotective effect of Crocus sativus. After the experimental period, blood samples were collected for the evaluation of biochemical parameters. Histopathological examination was performed also.

Results: Study showed that both aqueous and ethanloic extract of Crocus sativus significantly decreased serum ALT and AST enzyme activities and significant results were obtained when compared to the amiodarone group.

Conclusion: Based on the results it was concluded that addition of Crocus sativus to the treatment protocol of patients maintained on amiodarone for long time period can be recommended to prevent the liver injury.