Effects of drug substance crystal (methamphetamine) on histopathology and biochemical parameters of kidney in adult male mice

Methamphetamine causes damage in different body organs. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of methamphetamine on morphometric changes and biochemical parameters in kidney of adult mice.

In this experimental study, 56 mice were randomly divided into 7 groups: control and 6 experimental groups. Experimental groups 1, 2 and 3 received methamphetamine 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg respectively for 10 days. Experimental groups 4, 5 and 6 received methamphetamine (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) respectively for 40 days. After 10 and 40 days, kidneys of the mice of the experimental groups were removed and after tissue processing and imaging, volume of kidney and glomerulus were measured by using cavalieri's principle. In addition blood urea and creatinine levels were measured. Using SPSS software, data were analyzed by means of ANOVA.

Histopatological study showed that methamphetamine increased renal damage in a dose dependent manner. High doses of methamphetamine caused a moderate lobulation, glomerulosclerosis and kidney congestion. There was also a significant difference between the experimental (groups 3 to 6) and control groups in regard to the volumes of kidney and glomerulus (P=0.000). Significant differences were found in the level of urea in group 6 and creatinine levels in all experimental groups compared to those of control group (P=0.000).

Use of 10 mg/kg of methamphetamine for 40 days led to destructive effects on kidney tissue. Also, it increased serum levels of urea and creatinine.