Neuroprotective and gastroprotective effects of rutin and fluoxetine Co-supplementation: A biochemical analysis in Nauphoeta cinerea

A significant portion of the global population is affected by depression, leading to considerable social and economic burdens. Although antidepressants such as fluoxetine are effective, their prolonged use is often associated with adverse side effects. This study investigated the biochemical effects of fluoxetine and rutin, individually and in combination, using the Nauphoeta cinerea model. Cockroaches were supplemented with the compounds for seven days, during which toxicity, body weight, and food intake were monitored. At the end of the treatment, neural and intestinal tissues were subjected to biochemical analyses, and in silico evaluations of the compounds were also performed. Co-supplementation with rutin (5 mg/mL) and fluoxetine (20 mg/mL) significantly reduced TBARS levels compared to fluoxetine alone and prevented the weight loss typically observed with fluoxetine treatment, despite similar food intake across groups. Rutin also mitigated the toxicity associated with fluoxetine administration. These findings suggest that rutin co-supplementation may attenuate fluoxetine-induced oxidative stress and toxicity, supporting its potential as a protective agent during antidepressant therapy.