Research: ABRAHAM,

Listed in Issue 118

Abstract

ABRAHAM, Department of Biochemistry, Christian Medical College, Bagayam, Vellore 632002, Tamil Nadu, India, premilaabraham@yahoo.com, reports that vitamin C may be beneficial in the prevention of paracetamol-induced kidney damage.

Background

There is no specific treatment for paracetamol-induced kidney damage. Vitamin C is an outstanding chain-breaking antioxidant and a free radical scavenger. The aim of the present study was to determine whether large doses of vitamin C are useful in the treatment of paracetamol-induced renal damage.

Methodology

This animal study was performed in rats.

Results

The administration of vitamin C to the paracetamol-treated rats prevented kidney damage either completely or partially. Lower doses of vitamin C were beneficial in the prevention of paracetamol-induced kidney injury when administered early and higher doses were beneficial when administered later.

Conclusion

Moderate doses of vitamin C may be useful in the prevention, and megadoses of vitamin C in the treatment of paracetamol-induced kidney damage. The mechanism of protection by vitamin C appears to be the regeneration of nonprotein thiols.

References

Abraham P. Vitamin C may be beneficial in the prevention of paracetamol-induced renal damage. Clinical & Experimental Nephrology 9 (1): 24-30, Mar 2005.

Comment

Comment: The above study demonstrating that administration of vitamin C may prevent paracetamol-induced kidney damage may actually save lives if implemented into the emergency procedures following paracetamol poisoning.

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