The Effects of Paracetamol on the Liver and Kidney Functions of a Rat Model Following Prolonged Alcohol Administration

Abstract

Objectives: Despite the potential health risks, Paracetamol is commonly misused for management of hangover among regular users of alcohol. Studies on the combined use of the two drugs are limited and controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the interaction of the two drugs on the biological parameters of a rat model. Methods: Animals were divided into twelve groups. The negative and positive controls received distilled water and alcohol, respectively. Alcohol was administered at 2.5, 3.5 and 4.5 g/kg orally for 4 weeks. Paracetamol was given at doses of 40 and 400 mg/kg. Half of the other groups received combined doses of the two drugs. Hematological and blood chemistry were determined using auto-analyzers while histostructure was scored under light microscopy. Results: Alcohol induced a dose and time dependent gain on body weight, but when used in combination with paracetamol the effect was mixed. When used independently and combined, the drugs did not affect (p>0.05) the hematological profiles. For blood chemistry, the drugs caused a dose dependent elevation of liver enzymes, bilirubin, urea, reduced albumin levels and various degrees of liver and renal pathology. Conclusion: In moderate doses, Paracetamol is safe but high doses and chronic use of alcohol causes hepatotoxicity. Individually, alcohol and Paracetamol have a low risk of renal damage but when used together the risk is increased. Thus, regular use of Paracetamol in management of alcohol induced hangover is discouraged as this increases the risk of liver and kidney diseases.