Comparative Study on the Toxic Effects of Some Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in Rats

A comparative study was carried out on the toxic effects of some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs]; Paracetamol (acetominophen), Ibuprofen (Julifen) and Nimesulide (Usteinim) in rats. The parameters used in determining the level of toxicity were body weight, blood sugar level, haematological and biochemical changes. The rats were randomly divided into four groups (A, B, C and D) of six rats each. Group A served as the control, Group B was treated with Paracetamol at the dose of 14mg/kg, Group C was treated with Ibuprofen at the dose of 11mg/kg and Group D was treated with Nimesulide at the dose of 3mg/kg. All drugs were orally administered once daily with a stomach tube for a period of three weeks. The mean body weight and blood sugar level did not show any significant (P > 0.05) different in all the treated groups when compared with the control. The mean PCV and HB concentrations significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in group treated with Paracetamol and the total WBC counts significantly (P < 0.05) increased in group treated with Nimesulide. ALT levels increased significantly (P < 0.05) in all the treated groups. The urea level increased significantly (P < 0.05) only in the group treated with Ibuprofen. There was no significant (P > 0.05) different in Albumin and Creatinine levels in all the treated groups when compared with the control. The result of this study shows that all NSAIDs used were toxic to the rats within the period of study. Paracetamol and Nimesulide caused hepatic impairment, whereas Ibuprofen caused both hepatic and renal impairment. Paracetamol had effect on the haematology and is capable of inducing anaemia. It was concluded from the study that prolonged use of NSAIDs is harmful to the body system and leads to organ damage.