Evaluation of Propofol Protective Effect on Liver Tissue Damage Due to Methotrexate Administration in Male Wistar Rats

Methotrexate (MTX) is a cytotoxic drug that is prescribed for some diseases and tumors that its use is limited due to some side effects. Propofol, a drug with antioxidant properties, is one of the most desirable sedatives and anesthetics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of propofol against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity.

24 rats were divided into 4 groups: control group (distilled water gavage), propofol group (10 mg / kg three times a week), methotrexate group (20 mg/kg on days 17 and 18) and propofol-methotrexate group. There were intraperitoneal injections and the duration of the study was 21 days. Animals were anesthetized and plasma was collected to estimate AST, ALT, LDH, and total bilirubin. Liver tissue was isolated for histopathological study.

There was observed that propofol significantly reduced the levels of AST and ALT (P<0.0001), but its effect on reducing ALP and LDH was not significant. Changes in total bilirubin were not significant in any group. In the histopathological study, in "MTX group" were seen cell necrosis, cell degeneration, leukocyte infiltration, congestion of central vein and sinusoid dilation. Injury was significantly reduced in the "pro-MTX group" compared to the "MTX group"(P<0.0001).

The results of the present study showed that propofol has protective effects against methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity, but for clinical application, there are needed further studies.