Abstract

Background:
Betamethasone (BM) is a long-acting synthetic fluorinated glucocorticoid with metabolic, immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative effects. However, its use is associated with adverse effects, particularly in the liver and kidney.

Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of spirulina and Lagenaria siceraria against bone marrow-induced adverse effects in rats.

Methods:
Sixty male Wistar albino rats were divided into six groups and treated for 3 successive weeks. The control group was orally administered distilled water daily, the BM group, BM and spirulina group, BM and Lagenaria siceraria group, spirulina group, and Lagenaria siceraria group. Blood and tissue samples were collected for different liver and kidney function parameters, antioxidant enzymes, and immune-related parameters.

Results:
BM caused a significant increase in serum urea, uric acid, and creatinine levels. Liver function was disturbed as liver enzymes showed significant increases in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and glutathione triphosphate (GGT) and decreased total protein, albumin, and globulin. Sodium, potassium, and calcium levels significantly decreased. The lipid profiles showed an increase in HDL cholesterol, VLDL, serum cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and TGs. The oxidant and oxidant status showed an increase in MDA and a decrease in SOD and TAC. Increases in the Random Blood Glucose, Insulin Level (Fasting), and Hemostatic insulin assignment of insulin resistance, PTH and increase TGF-β, and IL6 of liver, kidney, and spleen were also recorded. Spirulina and Lagenaria siceraria showed significant ameliorative effects against such adverse effects of BM.

Conclusion:
Spirulina and/or Lagenaria siceraria are highly recommended during the treatment course of BM.

Key words: Betamethasone; Spirulina; Lagenaria siceraria, Rats, Adverse effects.