A potential therapeutic role of resveratrol in mitigating hepatotoxicity induced by paracetamol and alcohol

Background: Drug-induced hepatotoxicity, particularly from ethanol and acetaminophen (APAP), is a pressing global health challenge. This damage arises from oxidative stress and inflammation, manifesting as elevated liver enzymes and structural liver alterations. Resveratrol and silymarin, recognized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, offer potential hepatoprotective benefits.

Methods: This study investigated the hepatoprotective efficacy of resveratrol and silymarin, alone and in combination, in a rat model of ethanol- and APAP-induced liver injury. Thirty Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, ethanol-APAP, ethanol-APAP-resveratrol, ethanol-APAP-silymarin, and ethanol-APAP-resveratrol-silymarin. Treatments were administered orally for 10 days. Serum ALT and AST levels were assessed, and liver tissues underwent histological evaluation.

Results: Ethanol and APAP administration significantly elevated ALT and AST levels, alongside severe liver structural disruptions. Treatment with resveratrol or silymarin alone normalized enzyme levels and improved liver histology. Notably, the combined resveratrol-silymarin treatment exhibited greater reductions in ALT and AST levels and superior restoration of liver architecture compared to either treatment alone, indicating a synergistic hepatoprotective effect.

Conclusions: Resveratrol and silymarin effectively counteract ethanol- and APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Their combined use demonstrates a synergistic benefit, as evidenced by enhanced biochemical and histological improvements. These findings support the potential therapeutic role of these natural agents in managing drug-induced liver injury.