RAFEEQ KHAN | University of Karachi (original) (raw)

Papers by RAFEEQ KHAN

BMC Pulmonary Medicine, 2012

BackgroundAlthoughGroup A beta hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS)can cause bacterial pharyngitis, th... more BackgroundAlthoughGroup A beta hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS)can cause bacterial pharyngitis, the most common etiology is viral; despite this viral etiology, antibiotics are commonly prescribed for this infection in industrialized countries. We investigated the prevalence ofGABHSin adult pharyngitis patients from lower socioeconomic settings in Karachi, Pakistan, how often antibiotics are prescribed for pharyngitis and if appropriate agents were used in a developing world setting. Finally, we wanted to see the usefulness of modified McIsaac scores in predicting positive cultures.MethodsAdult patients were recruited from three local hospital outpatient dispensaries (OPDs). All patients aged 14–65 years who were suspected of having bacterial pharyngitis had throat swabs taken. Laboratory results forGABHSpharyngitis were then compared with their prescriptions. Appropriateness (using the World Health Organization’s definition) and type of antibiotic prescribed were assessed.ResultsOf 1...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2018

Fruits produce revitalizing effects, hence the impact of Punica granatum, Citrus limon and their ... more Fruits produce revitalizing effects, hence the impact of Punica granatum, Citrus limon and their combinations have been investigated on the plasma levels of gonadotropin, testosterone and sexual development capacity in female rabbits. Ninety female rabbits were randomly assigned into nine groups, each comprising of ten animals. One group was given saline and designated as control. Three groups were given P. granatum 2mL /kg, 5mL/kg, 8mL/kg, other three groups received C. limon 0.2mL/kg, 0.4mL/kg, 0.6mL/kg respectively, remaining groups received C. limon and P. granatum in combination i.e. 0.4mL/kg C. limon + 5mL/kg P. granatum and 0.2mL/kg C. limon + 8mL/kg P. granatum. Juices were administered once daily by mouth from day 0 of pups delivered to postnatal day15. Blood samples were gathered from ear vein at day11 and day15. There was significant increase in follicle stimulating hormone by P. granatum at 5 and 8mL/kg on day 11 and 15, by C. limon at 0.4 and 0.6mL/kg on day11, 0.4mL/kg...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2016

Citrus bioflavonoids embrace a wide group of phenolic compounds effecting the production and scav... more Citrus bioflavonoids embrace a wide group of phenolic compounds effecting the production and scavenging of reactive oxygen species and the processes relating free radical-mediated injury. Keeping in view of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Citrus sinensis and Citrus paradisi, present study was undertaken to explore the effects of C. sinensis (orange juice) and C. paradisi (grapefruit juice) at three different doses alone and their two combinations with the objective to examine the effects of these compounds in an experimental model of rat colitis induced by trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid (TNBS). Hence biochemical parameters e.g. myeloperoxidase, alkaline phosphatase, C-reactive protein (CRP) and glutathione were assessed. Data entry and analysis was accomplished by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 17 and was presented as mean ± S.E.M with 95% confidence interval. Present result shows that these juices, mainly C. paradisi, may be efficacious for t...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2018

Anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of Vernonia anthelmintica se... more Anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of Vernonia anthelmintica seeds were evaluated in diet rat model. The study included forty eight Sprague Dawley rats of either sex with eight animals in each group. Except for control the disease control, standard and treatment groups were treated with high-fat high-sugar diet for 8 weeks. After confirmation of hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia, the standard group received atorvastatin (2.1 mg.kg-1), treatment groups received hexane extract, ethanol extract and water decoction of Vernonia anthelmintica seeds (300mg.kg-1) for next 30 days. Disease control and control were given normal saline in volume equivalent to other groups. High-fat high-sugar diet was continued in all groups except control for 30 day period. Lipid profile, liver function tests and fasting blood sugar were analyzed in fasting blood samples. Cardiac risk parameters were calculated and results were analyzed by one way ANOVA using SPSS. All three t...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2014

The genus Citrus of the family Rutaceae includes many species e.g. Citrus indica, Citrus aurantif... more The genus Citrus of the family Rutaceae includes many species e.g. Citrus indica, Citrus aurantifolia and Citrus limon, among which Citrus limon L. Burm. f. has been reported to have highest antimicrobial activity. It is used as antidote against certain venom, due to its platelet inhibitory effect and also reported to have hypocholesterolemic effect. However its anticoagulant and thrombolytic effect were not been investigated, hence a prospective in-vitro/in-vivo study was designed to determine the effect of Citrus limon on blood parameters, coagulation and anticoagulation factors. In-vitro tests revealed highly significant increase in thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time by Citrus limon, whereas fibrinogen concentration was significantly reduced in comparison to control, however prothrombin time was not affected significantly. In-vivo testing of Citrus limon was done at three different doses i.e. 0.2ml/kg, 0.4ml/kg and 0.6ml/kg in healthy rabbits. Significant cha...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2019

Psoriasis has become a topic of global concern because of consistency in its prevalence according... more Psoriasis has become a topic of global concern because of consistency in its prevalence according to Global Report on Psoriasis 2016, however, till date, no therapy has provided complete cure of this disease and no useful measure was discovered to prevent it or eliminate the risk of its relapse. Hence, the present study was designed to evaluate anti-psoriatic effects of Spinacia oleracea due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-proliferative and skin-strengthening contents. Psoriasis was induced by oral potassium iodide solution which was then determined by two methods i.e. percentage reduction in psoriatic patch size and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score to measure the decrease in severity. Twenty albino rats were used in each method, grouped as standard, curative, preventive and control with five rats in each group. Therapeutic and preventive doses for S. oleracea in both the methods were calculated according to daily intake guidelines of National Cancer Insti...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2017

Change in dietary pattern, sedentary life style and increasing stresses are contributing factors ... more Change in dietary pattern, sedentary life style and increasing stresses are contributing factors for high prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Diabetic complications often lead to cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and hyperlipidemia that are the leading cause death and disability all over the world. Apart from pharmacotherapy, use of antihyperglycemic medicinal food is a new aspect in diabetes management and prevention of its complications. Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) has been traditionally used for different diseases because of the presence of bioactive agents like anthocyanin, phenols, sterols, carotenoids, procyanidins and flavonoids however its potential as a medicinal food is still unclear. Native date fruit variety Aseel oral suspension was evaluated using 32 normoglycemic and hyperglycemic Sprague dawley rats with two doses (300 and 600mg/kg) against control, disease control and standard drug (Glibenclamide 2.5mg/kg). Outcomes of normoglycemic studies reveals insignifican...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2019

The herbal agents rich in flavonoids are progressively becoming popular these days as they are co... more The herbal agents rich in flavonoids are progressively becoming popular these days as they are considered to have anti-oxidant effects and also lack bothersome effects. That's why existing research was encircled around the anti-coagulant effect of Nelumbo nucifera fruit (NNF) as it is also a rich source of flavonoids and cultivated in abundance especially in tropical regions of Asia but its usefulness as anti-coagulant agent was never determined pharmacologically. Anticoagulant assessment was done in thirty five male Wister rats which were separated equally in 5 groups. Results of the current study revealed that NNF 200mg/kg significantly prolonged prothrombin time and thrombin time, whereas fibrinogen level was highly significantly reduced as compared to control. Fibrinogen level was also reduced highly significantly with NNF 100 mg/kg as compared to control without affecting other parameters of coagulation i.e. activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time and thromb...

Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2011

Present study was performed to investigate the effect of Citrus limon and Pomegranate juices alon... more Present study was performed to investigate the effect of Citrus limon and Pomegranate juices alone and their combinations on blood glucose and plasma insulin levels in alloxan induced diabetic rats as compared to diabetic control. Decrease in blood glucose level by Citrus limon was highly significant in dose dependant manner but there was highly significant increase in plasma insulin levels at moderate dose and significant increase at high dose. However Pomegranate showed highly significant decrease in blood glucose, in inverse dose dependant manner i.e. maximum effect was observed at low dose. Whereas there was highly significant increase in plasma insulin level at all three doses. Whereas combination dose group CPJ-1 (0.4+5ml/kg) showed highly significant response on blood glucose and plasma insulin, which was maximum effect obtained among all treated groups. These results suggest that Citrus limon and Pomegranate has phytochemical and other essential nutrients which have reduced ...

Journal of the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, 2012

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of methanol extract of Ajwain on coagulation parameters PT and aP... more OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of methanol extract of Ajwain on coagulation parameters PT and aPTT and to determine usefulness. DESIGN: This comparative study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Karachi, Pakistan. METHODS: Antithrombotic tests PT and aPTT were conducted after multiple dosing of Ajwain on rats using standard kits and reagents, which were performed on Humaclot duo Germany. The data was subjected to analysis by taking mean and standard error to the mean using student T- test. RESULTS: The results revealed that Ajwain extract did not show any significant effect on aPTT whereas increase in PT was highly significant (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results suggested that the methanol extract of Ajwain prolonged PT, similar to that of Warfarin suggesting its possible effects on the extrinsic pathway, while aPTT was not altered suggesting that it may have no effects on the intrinsic pathway.

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2015

Nowadays anxiety and depression are most commonly encountered diseases. They are not only difficu... more Nowadays anxiety and depression are most commonly encountered diseases. They are not only difficult to diagnose but even difficult to treat since both are sometimes seen together or one predisposes the other. Apart from this side effect profile of these drugs is also high; hence there is immense scope for the herbal drugs to treat these disorders. Present study was therefore performed to evaluate the antianxiety and antidepressant effect of Carthamus tinctorius petal extract. 28 white albino rats bred in the animal house of Department of Pharmacology, University of Karachi weighing 180-220gm were randomly divided into four groups (n=7/group) to assess behavioral effects. The anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of Carthamus tinctorius petal extract were evaluated using elevated plus maize and forced swim test respectively at100 and 200mg/kg. These effects were compared with standard drugs Diazepam (anxiolytic) 2mg/kg and Nortriptyline (antidepressant) 12.5mg/kg. Results show that C...

Memory is greatly influenced by factors like food, stress and quality of sleep, hence present stu... more Memory is greatly influenced by factors like food, stress and quality of sleep, hence present study was designed to evaluate the effect of Citrus limon and Pomegranate juices on memory of mice using Harvard Panlab Passive Avoidance response apparatus controlled through LE2708 Programmer. Passive avoidance is fear-motivated tests used to assess short or long-term memory of small animals, which measures latency to enter into the black compartment. Animals at MCLD showed highly significant and significant increase in latency to enter into the black compartment after 3 and 24 hours respectively than control, animals at HCLD showed significant increase in latency only after 3hours. Animals both at low and moderate doses of pomegranate showed significant increase in test latency after 3 hours, while animals at high dose showed highly significant and significant increase in latency after 3 and 24 hours respectively. There was highly significant and significant increase in latency in animal...

Herbs have been a huge source of natural substances used to treat and prevent several illnesses; ... more Herbs have been a huge source of natural substances used to treat and prevent several illnesses; therefore it is vital to identify the probable toxicity that might take place as a consequence of using herbal combinations.This study was undertaken in rabbits to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of herbal drug in normal and CCl4-induced hepatic damage. Herbal drug was tested in 3 different doses, each group comprising of seven rabbits of either sex followed by the administration of CCl(4) with herbal drug and saline for 45 days. Liver function tests and histopathological evaluation were carried out at the end of dosing using standards kits.The result shows that normal dose of herbal drug (0.43 ml/kg) possess hepatoprotective effects against CCl(4) induced liver damage in rabbits which may be due to the various active ingredients present in herbal drug combination. Present study also suggests that there was a significant (p<0.05) increase in serum alkaline phosphatase and γ-G...

This study was aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects of Syzygium cumini (S. cumini) seeds ... more This study was aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects of Syzygium cumini (S. cumini) seeds extract along with wound healing score in correlation to glutathione and blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 8 groups (n=6) and diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (40 mg kg-1 body weight). An alcoholic extract of S. cumini was administered to punch plier induced wounded rats and changes in serum glutathione levels, wound healing score and blood glucose levels were examined. Laser treatment of 500 mW for 5 minutes was given once a day for 12 days at 810 and 630 nm respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using one way ANOVA. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant and p-value <0.001 was considered highly significant. There was significant increase in glutathione levels and wound healing score when S. cumini extract was administered oral and topical along with topical laser therapy. There wa...

Diabetes mellitus is a major threat to present and future generations. The role of herbal medicat... more Diabetes mellitus is a major threat to present and future generations. The role of herbal medication has emerged as a safe alternative to currently available medication due to its decreased potential to produce side effects, hence effect of Carthamus tinctorius was observed on fasting blood glucose and insulin levels in alloxan induced diabetic rabbits. Thirty five healthy male rabbits were divided into 5 groups with 7 rabbits in each (Normal control, diabetic control, diabetic treated with glibenclamide, diabetic treated with Carthamus tinctorius extract at doses of 200 and 300mg/kg of body weight). Drug and extract were given orally for 30 days and the values for blood glucose levels were observed after 15(th) and 30(th) day of treatment by using standard reagent kits provided by Human Germany. While insulin levels were checked at the end of the study by using Architect i1000 by Abbott Diagnostics USA. Animals were also observed for any gross toxicity during the study. Results rev...

Hyperlipidemia is the root cause for development of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, diab... more Hyperlipidemia is the root cause for development of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension and cerebral palsy. Cymbopogon jwarancusa is an aromatic grass (Rusha grass, khavi grass) belonging to family Poaceaea. C. jwarancusa essential oil is famous for its use in perfumery, soaps cosmetics, detergents, medicine and pharmaceuticals. The anti-pyretic, anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-oxidant and cytotoxic activities of C. jwarancusa have been reported in literature. In the present study different doses of C. jwarancusa extract have been investigated for anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic activities in high-fat high sugar diet model in rats. Hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia were assessed by measuring body weight, serum lipid profile and fasting blood glucose levels. Administration of ethanol leaves extract of C. jwarancusa exhibited significant dose-dependent reduction in body weight, lipid parameters and blood sugar levels. Hence it m...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2015

The herbal combination under study consists of Withania somnifera, Tribulus terrestris, Mucuna pr... more The herbal combination under study consists of Withania somnifera, Tribulus terrestris, Mucuna pruriens and Argyria speciosa. Present study is mainly designed to investigate the gross physical, sub-chronic, hematological and histopathological effects of the combination widely used for its stimulating, revitalizing and fertility boosting effects in Pakistan. Sub-chronic, hematological and histopathological outcomes of herbal combination were assessed on 27 albino rabbits weighing from 1000 gm-1500 gm after giving herbal combination for 60 days in two doses 27 and 81 mg/kg against control. No significant toxicity was revealed during the entire period of study, however some biochemical changes were observed in kidney and liver but these changes did not coincide with histopathological findings. There was no mortality and evidence of systemic toxicity including hematological toxicity following 60 days administration of herbal combination. Results of present study suggest that further stu...

J Ayub Med Coll …, 2005

Background: Cardiovascular disease is common cause of death in developed as well as developing co... more Background: Cardiovascular disease is common cause of death in developed as well as developing countries. The most common cause of Ischemic Heart disease is narrowing of coronary arteries, a process called as atherosclerosis. The objective of the present study ...

BMC Pulmonary Medicine, 2012

BackgroundAlthoughGroup A beta hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS)can cause bacterial pharyngitis, th... more BackgroundAlthoughGroup A beta hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS)can cause bacterial pharyngitis, the most common etiology is viral; despite this viral etiology, antibiotics are commonly prescribed for this infection in industrialized countries. We investigated the prevalence ofGABHSin adult pharyngitis patients from lower socioeconomic settings in Karachi, Pakistan, how often antibiotics are prescribed for pharyngitis and if appropriate agents were used in a developing world setting. Finally, we wanted to see the usefulness of modified McIsaac scores in predicting positive cultures.MethodsAdult patients were recruited from three local hospital outpatient dispensaries (OPDs). All patients aged 14–65 years who were suspected of having bacterial pharyngitis had throat swabs taken. Laboratory results forGABHSpharyngitis were then compared with their prescriptions. Appropriateness (using the World Health Organization’s definition) and type of antibiotic prescribed were assessed.ResultsOf 1...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2018

Fruits produce revitalizing effects, hence the impact of Punica granatum, Citrus limon and their ... more Fruits produce revitalizing effects, hence the impact of Punica granatum, Citrus limon and their combinations have been investigated on the plasma levels of gonadotropin, testosterone and sexual development capacity in female rabbits. Ninety female rabbits were randomly assigned into nine groups, each comprising of ten animals. One group was given saline and designated as control. Three groups were given P. granatum 2mL /kg, 5mL/kg, 8mL/kg, other three groups received C. limon 0.2mL/kg, 0.4mL/kg, 0.6mL/kg respectively, remaining groups received C. limon and P. granatum in combination i.e. 0.4mL/kg C. limon + 5mL/kg P. granatum and 0.2mL/kg C. limon + 8mL/kg P. granatum. Juices were administered once daily by mouth from day 0 of pups delivered to postnatal day15. Blood samples were gathered from ear vein at day11 and day15. There was significant increase in follicle stimulating hormone by P. granatum at 5 and 8mL/kg on day 11 and 15, by C. limon at 0.4 and 0.6mL/kg on day11, 0.4mL/kg...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2016

Citrus bioflavonoids embrace a wide group of phenolic compounds effecting the production and scav... more Citrus bioflavonoids embrace a wide group of phenolic compounds effecting the production and scavenging of reactive oxygen species and the processes relating free radical-mediated injury. Keeping in view of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Citrus sinensis and Citrus paradisi, present study was undertaken to explore the effects of C. sinensis (orange juice) and C. paradisi (grapefruit juice) at three different doses alone and their two combinations with the objective to examine the effects of these compounds in an experimental model of rat colitis induced by trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid (TNBS). Hence biochemical parameters e.g. myeloperoxidase, alkaline phosphatase, C-reactive protein (CRP) and glutathione were assessed. Data entry and analysis was accomplished by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 17 and was presented as mean ± S.E.M with 95% confidence interval. Present result shows that these juices, mainly C. paradisi, may be efficacious for t...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2018

Anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of Vernonia anthelmintica se... more Anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of Vernonia anthelmintica seeds were evaluated in diet rat model. The study included forty eight Sprague Dawley rats of either sex with eight animals in each group. Except for control the disease control, standard and treatment groups were treated with high-fat high-sugar diet for 8 weeks. After confirmation of hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia, the standard group received atorvastatin (2.1 mg.kg-1), treatment groups received hexane extract, ethanol extract and water decoction of Vernonia anthelmintica seeds (300mg.kg-1) for next 30 days. Disease control and control were given normal saline in volume equivalent to other groups. High-fat high-sugar diet was continued in all groups except control for 30 day period. Lipid profile, liver function tests and fasting blood sugar were analyzed in fasting blood samples. Cardiac risk parameters were calculated and results were analyzed by one way ANOVA using SPSS. All three t...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2014

The genus Citrus of the family Rutaceae includes many species e.g. Citrus indica, Citrus aurantif... more The genus Citrus of the family Rutaceae includes many species e.g. Citrus indica, Citrus aurantifolia and Citrus limon, among which Citrus limon L. Burm. f. has been reported to have highest antimicrobial activity. It is used as antidote against certain venom, due to its platelet inhibitory effect and also reported to have hypocholesterolemic effect. However its anticoagulant and thrombolytic effect were not been investigated, hence a prospective in-vitro/in-vivo study was designed to determine the effect of Citrus limon on blood parameters, coagulation and anticoagulation factors. In-vitro tests revealed highly significant increase in thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time by Citrus limon, whereas fibrinogen concentration was significantly reduced in comparison to control, however prothrombin time was not affected significantly. In-vivo testing of Citrus limon was done at three different doses i.e. 0.2ml/kg, 0.4ml/kg and 0.6ml/kg in healthy rabbits. Significant cha...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2019

Psoriasis has become a topic of global concern because of consistency in its prevalence according... more Psoriasis has become a topic of global concern because of consistency in its prevalence according to Global Report on Psoriasis 2016, however, till date, no therapy has provided complete cure of this disease and no useful measure was discovered to prevent it or eliminate the risk of its relapse. Hence, the present study was designed to evaluate anti-psoriatic effects of Spinacia oleracea due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-proliferative and skin-strengthening contents. Psoriasis was induced by oral potassium iodide solution which was then determined by two methods i.e. percentage reduction in psoriatic patch size and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score to measure the decrease in severity. Twenty albino rats were used in each method, grouped as standard, curative, preventive and control with five rats in each group. Therapeutic and preventive doses for S. oleracea in both the methods were calculated according to daily intake guidelines of National Cancer Insti...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2017

Change in dietary pattern, sedentary life style and increasing stresses are contributing factors ... more Change in dietary pattern, sedentary life style and increasing stresses are contributing factors for high prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Diabetic complications often lead to cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and hyperlipidemia that are the leading cause death and disability all over the world. Apart from pharmacotherapy, use of antihyperglycemic medicinal food is a new aspect in diabetes management and prevention of its complications. Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) has been traditionally used for different diseases because of the presence of bioactive agents like anthocyanin, phenols, sterols, carotenoids, procyanidins and flavonoids however its potential as a medicinal food is still unclear. Native date fruit variety Aseel oral suspension was evaluated using 32 normoglycemic and hyperglycemic Sprague dawley rats with two doses (300 and 600mg/kg) against control, disease control and standard drug (Glibenclamide 2.5mg/kg). Outcomes of normoglycemic studies reveals insignifican...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2019

The herbal agents rich in flavonoids are progressively becoming popular these days as they are co... more The herbal agents rich in flavonoids are progressively becoming popular these days as they are considered to have anti-oxidant effects and also lack bothersome effects. That's why existing research was encircled around the anti-coagulant effect of Nelumbo nucifera fruit (NNF) as it is also a rich source of flavonoids and cultivated in abundance especially in tropical regions of Asia but its usefulness as anti-coagulant agent was never determined pharmacologically. Anticoagulant assessment was done in thirty five male Wister rats which were separated equally in 5 groups. Results of the current study revealed that NNF 200mg/kg significantly prolonged prothrombin time and thrombin time, whereas fibrinogen level was highly significantly reduced as compared to control. Fibrinogen level was also reduced highly significantly with NNF 100 mg/kg as compared to control without affecting other parameters of coagulation i.e. activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time and thromb...

Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2011

Present study was performed to investigate the effect of Citrus limon and Pomegranate juices alon... more Present study was performed to investigate the effect of Citrus limon and Pomegranate juices alone and their combinations on blood glucose and plasma insulin levels in alloxan induced diabetic rats as compared to diabetic control. Decrease in blood glucose level by Citrus limon was highly significant in dose dependant manner but there was highly significant increase in plasma insulin levels at moderate dose and significant increase at high dose. However Pomegranate showed highly significant decrease in blood glucose, in inverse dose dependant manner i.e. maximum effect was observed at low dose. Whereas there was highly significant increase in plasma insulin level at all three doses. Whereas combination dose group CPJ-1 (0.4+5ml/kg) showed highly significant response on blood glucose and plasma insulin, which was maximum effect obtained among all treated groups. These results suggest that Citrus limon and Pomegranate has phytochemical and other essential nutrients which have reduced ...

Journal of the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, 2012

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of methanol extract of Ajwain on coagulation parameters PT and aP... more OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of methanol extract of Ajwain on coagulation parameters PT and aPTT and to determine usefulness. DESIGN: This comparative study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Karachi, Pakistan. METHODS: Antithrombotic tests PT and aPTT were conducted after multiple dosing of Ajwain on rats using standard kits and reagents, which were performed on Humaclot duo Germany. The data was subjected to analysis by taking mean and standard error to the mean using student T- test. RESULTS: The results revealed that Ajwain extract did not show any significant effect on aPTT whereas increase in PT was highly significant (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results suggested that the methanol extract of Ajwain prolonged PT, similar to that of Warfarin suggesting its possible effects on the extrinsic pathway, while aPTT was not altered suggesting that it may have no effects on the intrinsic pathway.

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2015

Nowadays anxiety and depression are most commonly encountered diseases. They are not only difficu... more Nowadays anxiety and depression are most commonly encountered diseases. They are not only difficult to diagnose but even difficult to treat since both are sometimes seen together or one predisposes the other. Apart from this side effect profile of these drugs is also high; hence there is immense scope for the herbal drugs to treat these disorders. Present study was therefore performed to evaluate the antianxiety and antidepressant effect of Carthamus tinctorius petal extract. 28 white albino rats bred in the animal house of Department of Pharmacology, University of Karachi weighing 180-220gm were randomly divided into four groups (n=7/group) to assess behavioral effects. The anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of Carthamus tinctorius petal extract were evaluated using elevated plus maize and forced swim test respectively at100 and 200mg/kg. These effects were compared with standard drugs Diazepam (anxiolytic) 2mg/kg and Nortriptyline (antidepressant) 12.5mg/kg. Results show that C...

Memory is greatly influenced by factors like food, stress and quality of sleep, hence present stu... more Memory is greatly influenced by factors like food, stress and quality of sleep, hence present study was designed to evaluate the effect of Citrus limon and Pomegranate juices on memory of mice using Harvard Panlab Passive Avoidance response apparatus controlled through LE2708 Programmer. Passive avoidance is fear-motivated tests used to assess short or long-term memory of small animals, which measures latency to enter into the black compartment. Animals at MCLD showed highly significant and significant increase in latency to enter into the black compartment after 3 and 24 hours respectively than control, animals at HCLD showed significant increase in latency only after 3hours. Animals both at low and moderate doses of pomegranate showed significant increase in test latency after 3 hours, while animals at high dose showed highly significant and significant increase in latency after 3 and 24 hours respectively. There was highly significant and significant increase in latency in animal...

Herbs have been a huge source of natural substances used to treat and prevent several illnesses; ... more Herbs have been a huge source of natural substances used to treat and prevent several illnesses; therefore it is vital to identify the probable toxicity that might take place as a consequence of using herbal combinations.This study was undertaken in rabbits to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of herbal drug in normal and CCl4-induced hepatic damage. Herbal drug was tested in 3 different doses, each group comprising of seven rabbits of either sex followed by the administration of CCl(4) with herbal drug and saline for 45 days. Liver function tests and histopathological evaluation were carried out at the end of dosing using standards kits.The result shows that normal dose of herbal drug (0.43 ml/kg) possess hepatoprotective effects against CCl(4) induced liver damage in rabbits which may be due to the various active ingredients present in herbal drug combination. Present study also suggests that there was a significant (p<0.05) increase in serum alkaline phosphatase and γ-G...

This study was aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects of Syzygium cumini (S. cumini) seeds ... more This study was aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects of Syzygium cumini (S. cumini) seeds extract along with wound healing score in correlation to glutathione and blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 8 groups (n=6) and diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (40 mg kg-1 body weight). An alcoholic extract of S. cumini was administered to punch plier induced wounded rats and changes in serum glutathione levels, wound healing score and blood glucose levels were examined. Laser treatment of 500 mW for 5 minutes was given once a day for 12 days at 810 and 630 nm respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using one way ANOVA. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant and p-value <0.001 was considered highly significant. There was significant increase in glutathione levels and wound healing score when S. cumini extract was administered oral and topical along with topical laser therapy. There wa...

Diabetes mellitus is a major threat to present and future generations. The role of herbal medicat... more Diabetes mellitus is a major threat to present and future generations. The role of herbal medication has emerged as a safe alternative to currently available medication due to its decreased potential to produce side effects, hence effect of Carthamus tinctorius was observed on fasting blood glucose and insulin levels in alloxan induced diabetic rabbits. Thirty five healthy male rabbits were divided into 5 groups with 7 rabbits in each (Normal control, diabetic control, diabetic treated with glibenclamide, diabetic treated with Carthamus tinctorius extract at doses of 200 and 300mg/kg of body weight). Drug and extract were given orally for 30 days and the values for blood glucose levels were observed after 15(th) and 30(th) day of treatment by using standard reagent kits provided by Human Germany. While insulin levels were checked at the end of the study by using Architect i1000 by Abbott Diagnostics USA. Animals were also observed for any gross toxicity during the study. Results rev...

Hyperlipidemia is the root cause for development of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, diab... more Hyperlipidemia is the root cause for development of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension and cerebral palsy. Cymbopogon jwarancusa is an aromatic grass (Rusha grass, khavi grass) belonging to family Poaceaea. C. jwarancusa essential oil is famous for its use in perfumery, soaps cosmetics, detergents, medicine and pharmaceuticals. The anti-pyretic, anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-oxidant and cytotoxic activities of C. jwarancusa have been reported in literature. In the present study different doses of C. jwarancusa extract have been investigated for anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic activities in high-fat high sugar diet model in rats. Hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia were assessed by measuring body weight, serum lipid profile and fasting blood glucose levels. Administration of ethanol leaves extract of C. jwarancusa exhibited significant dose-dependent reduction in body weight, lipid parameters and blood sugar levels. Hence it m...

Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 2015

The herbal combination under study consists of Withania somnifera, Tribulus terrestris, Mucuna pr... more The herbal combination under study consists of Withania somnifera, Tribulus terrestris, Mucuna pruriens and Argyria speciosa. Present study is mainly designed to investigate the gross physical, sub-chronic, hematological and histopathological effects of the combination widely used for its stimulating, revitalizing and fertility boosting effects in Pakistan. Sub-chronic, hematological and histopathological outcomes of herbal combination were assessed on 27 albino rabbits weighing from 1000 gm-1500 gm after giving herbal combination for 60 days in two doses 27 and 81 mg/kg against control. No significant toxicity was revealed during the entire period of study, however some biochemical changes were observed in kidney and liver but these changes did not coincide with histopathological findings. There was no mortality and evidence of systemic toxicity including hematological toxicity following 60 days administration of herbal combination. Results of present study suggest that further stu...

J Ayub Med Coll …, 2005

Background: Cardiovascular disease is common cause of death in developed as well as developing co... more Background: Cardiovascular disease is common cause of death in developed as well as developing countries. The most common cause of Ischemic Heart disease is narrowing of coronary arteries, a process called as atherosclerosis. The objective of the present study ...