Phenolic-rich fraction of Solanum betaceum mitigates atorvastatin-induced myotoxicity through antioxidant mechanisms in female wistar rats.

Background: Atorvastatin, a widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication, has been linked to statin-induced myotoxicity, a condition marked by elevated muscle enzymes and oxidative stress. While statins are essential for managing hypercholesterolemia and preventing cardiovascular diseases, their myotoxic side effects limit broader clinical use. This study investigated the myo-protective effects of the phenolic-rich fraction of Solanum betaceum (PRFSB) in mitigating atorvastatin-induced muscle damage in female Wistar rats.

Methods: Thirty female Wistar rats were divided into five groups: (1) a true control group receiving distilled water, (2) an atorvastatin-only group, and three treatment groups receiving PRFSB at varying doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) alongside atorvastatin. Muscle enzymes (creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase), oxidative stress markers (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde), and histopathological changes were assessed.

Results: Atorvastatin significantly elevated serum CK, LDH and oxidative stress markers, while PRFSB administration, particularly at 400 mg/kg, significantly reduced these elevations (p < 0.05). PRFSB restored muscle enzyme levels, normalized antioxidant defenses and reduced lipid peroxidation. Histological analysis revealed that PRFSB-treated groups exhibited preserved muscle architecture with minimal inflammation.

Conclusion: PRFSB effectively alleviated atorvastatin-induced myotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress, restoring muscle biomarkers and protecting tissue integrity. These findings suggest that PRFSB holds promise as an adjunct therapy to mitigate statin-induced muscle toxicity, warranting further exploration in clinical settings.