Comparative Study of the Protective Effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Alpha-Tocopherol on Isoniazid-Induced Hepatitis in Mice

OBJECTIVE: To assess the preventive role of alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in isoniazid-induced hepatitis. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental study. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Pharmacology, Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, and National Institute of Health, Islamabad, Pakistan, from July 2020 to June 2022. METHODOLOGY: A total of 150 mice were taken and divided into five groups, each containing 30 mice. Isoniazid was administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg orally for 28 days for the induction of hepatotoxicity. Alpha-lipoic acid and alpha-tocopherol were administered orally half an hour prior to the administration of isoniazid in a dose of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, respectively, alone and in combination for 28 days. Blood and liver samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological analysis, respectively. Statistical difference between serum levels of liver enzymes on day 0 and day 28 was analysed using paired t-test. RESULTS: Results showed protective effects of ALA and alpha tocopherol against isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity by reducing the serum levels of bilirubin and liver enzymes. Histopathology also indicated preservation of liver architecture against isoniazid-induced hepatitis by ALA and alpha tocopherol which was indicated by reduced necrosis, steatosis, and portal inflammation. CONCLUSION: The use of ALA and alpha-tocopherol may be helpful in preventing isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity. KEY WORDS: Alpha lipoic acid, Alpha tocopherol, Isoniazid, Hepatitis.