Abstract
Purpose: To examine Costus afer leaf extract (CALE) protective effects against naproxen-induced gastric ulcer and the mechanisms of protection.
Methods: Rats with naproxen-induced ulcer were pretreated with either CALE (800 mg/kg), pantoprazole (20 mg/kg), or a combination of both. Then the ulcer index, total gastric acidity, gastric pH, and curative index were evaluated. In addition, gastric mucin, pepsin, prostaglandin E2, nitric oxide, reduced glutathione, lipid peroxide, and superoxide dismutase were quantified. The gastric pathological change was also evaluated.
Results: Rats treated with CALE, pantoprazole, and their combination significantly decreased ulcer index, total gastric acidity, and gastric pH. All treatments induced a significant curative index in favor of the combination. The CALE significantly increased gastric mucin, prostaglandin E2, nitric oxide, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase. However, the CALE significantly decreased pepsin and lipid peroxide product.
Conclusion: These results reveal that CALE protects the stomach against naproxen-induced ulcer. This action is linked to increased gastroprotective factors, increased antioxidants, and decreased lipid peroxidation. The CALE may be used as an adjunctive treatment for ulcers caused by NSAIDs.