European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

EFFECT OF VITAMIN B COMPLEX ON THE HEART OF METHAMPHETAMINE INTOXICATED ADULT MALE WISTER RAT

Okafor Emeka Christian*, Ezeokafor Emmanuel Nonso, Dr. Bernard Omuwa Osazuwa, Dr. Akor Ekele Benjamin, Nwankwo Samuel Ikwunne and Nnakife Jessica Chi-amaka

ABSTRACT

Methamphetamine (METH) abuse is a significant global public health issue due to its addictive nature and negative impacts on physical and mental health (Rawson & Gonzales, 2020; Volkow, 2003). Chronic METH use is linked to numerous health complications, including cardiovascular issues, neurotoxicity, and psychiatric disorders. Additionally, liver damage has been reported following METH exposure (Smith and Fischer, 1970; Kamijo, 2002; Wijetunga et al., 2003; Ago, 2006). This study aims to provide insights into mitigating cardiovascular complications resulting from METH abuse, which is associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and cardiac dysfunction, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Despite the growing prevalence of METH abuse, effective therapeutic strategies to counteract cardiac injury are limited. Vitamin B complex, with its antioxidant properties, shows promise in protecting against oxidative stress and preserving cardiac function. The study evaluates the effects of vitamin B complex on the hearts of METH-intoxicated adult Wistar rats. A total of 28 rats were divided into seven groups (A-G), with Group A serving as the control. METH and vitamin B complex were administered orally over 21 days. Data showed significant weight loss in METH-treated groups (B and C), but weight recovery in vitamin B-treated groups (D to G). Organ weights were lower in METH-treated groups, indicating toxicity, while vitamin B supplementation mitigated these losses. Hematological results revealed methamphetamine-induced anemia in Group C, but treated groups exhibited recovery. Increases in white blood cells and platelet counts in intoxicated groups indicated inflammation, with vitamin B complex potentially modulating the immune response. Photomicrographs revealed normal cardiac architecture in the control group. METH-treated groups showed varying degrees of inflammation, with vitamin B complex treatments leading to improved cardiac cell activity and myocardial perfusion. This suggests a protective role for vitamin B complex in cardiac health during METH intoxication.

Keywords: Neurotoxicity, Methamphetamine, Psychiatric disorders.