Scholarly Article

Evaluation of Anti-Arthritic Activity of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Freund's Adjuvant Induced Arthritic Rats

Dr. Nadia Nausheen, Dr. Mohammed Mustafa Ahmed, Dr. Mohammed Muttayyib Ur Rahaman

1970-01-01 · Journal of Contemporary Clinical Practice · DOI: 10.61336/jccp/25-05-37

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Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation and systemic manifestations. Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac sodium are standard treatments, their adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal toxicity, limit long-term use. Omeprazole, primarily used as a proton pump inhibitor, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in various preclinical models. Aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of Omeprazole at different doses in comparison with Diclofenac sodium in a rat model of Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 30 Wistar albino rats (150 - 250 g), divided into five groups (n=6 each). Arthritis was induced by intra-plantar injection of 0.1 ml CFA in the left hind paw. Treatment was given for 21 days as follows: Group I (control - distilled water), Group II (diclofenac sodium 10 mg/kg), Groups III-V (omeprazole 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg, respectively). Paw edema was measured using a digital plethysmometer on days 0, 7, 14, and 21. Hematological and serological parameters (Hb, WBC, RBC, SRF, and CRP) were assessed, and arthritis severity was evaluated by arthritis score and pain index. Results: Omeprazole reduced paw edema in a dose-dependent manner, with the 30 mg/kg group showing 54% inhibition by day 21, comparable to 60% in the diclofenac group. Hematological improvements, including increased Hb and RBC and reduced WBC levels, were noted at higher doses. Serological markers (SRF and CRP) significantly decreased in the 30 mg/kg Omeprazole group. Arthritis scores were also markedly reduced at higher Omeprazole doses. Conclusion: Omeprazole exhibited significant anti-arthritic activity in CFA-induced arthritis in rats, particularly at 30 mg/kg. These effects may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Omeprazole may represent a potential alternative or adjunct in arthritis management, especially where NSAID use is contraindicated.

Keywords

Rheumatoid arthritis, Omeprazole, Anti-arthritic activity, Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA), Diclofenac sodium, Hematological parameters, C-reactive protein, Rheumatoid factor, Wistar rats

Citation Details

Journal of Contemporary Clinical Practice