The Toxic Effects of Paraquat (PQ) on Body Weights and Haematological Parameters in Male Albino Wistar Rats and its Amelioration with Vitamin C (original) (raw)

The present experiment was carried out to investigate the protective effect of Vitamin C on body weights and haematological parameters following paraquat (PQ) intoxication in rats. Total of 48 male albino Wistar rats were procured and divided into 4 groups consisting of 12 in each. Group 1- Control. Group 2- Paraquat (PQ) at the rate of 40 milligram/kg body weight/per oral/day. Group 3 - Vitamin C at the rate of 250 milligram/kg body weight/per oral/day. Group 4 - paraquat (PQ) at the rate of 40 milligram/kg body weight/per oral/day + Vitamin C at the rate of 250 milligram/kg body weight/per oral/day. The experiment was carried out for a period of 21 days. Group 4 rats revealed a significant (P<0.05) increase in the mean values of body weights, erythrocyte indices, total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leucocyte count (TLC) and Hb concentration except packed cell volume (PCV) which was insignificant when compared with group 2 rats. These results suggested that the Vitamin C administration offered remarkable protection against PQ induced alterations in body weights and haematology.