Abstract

Background:
Acetaminophen has an antipyretic activity by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis found in the brain, and this action is responsible for its analgesic effect, but overdose can cause hepatic and renal toxicity. Coenzyme Q10 has cytoprotective properties through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, it plays a role in energy production in the mitochondria, making it important in improving cellular damage by toxic agents.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of CoQ10 against acetaminophen toxicity on liver and kidney functions.

Methods:
Thirty adult male albino rats were randomly subdivided into three groups: control group, acetaminophen group, acetaminophen + CoQ10 group, acetaminophen in toxic dose (500mg/kg) orally, and acetaminophen + CoQ10 group, drenched with coenzymeQ10 (10 mg/kg) orally, then acetaminophen in toxic dose (500 mg/kg). Dosing continued for 30 days. Blood was collected for biochemical analysis of hepatic and renal biochemical parameters.

Results:
Acetaminophen induced hepatic injury as measured by increased hepatic biochemical parameters “Total serum bilirubin (TSB), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT)” (P≤0.05). The third group, which received acetaminophen plus CoQ10, had a significant decrease in hepatic biochemical markers(P≤0.05). The drenched of acetaminophen increased (creatinine and albumin), whereas the treatment with CoQ10 reduced their levels.

Conclusion:
Coenzyme Q10 can reduce the toxicity of acetaminophen overdose by acting as an antioxidant agent that reduces tissue and organ damage.

Key words: Acetaminophen toxicity; Antioxidant; Hepatic enzymes; Nephrotoxicity; Oxidative stress.