Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Establishment of a Mouse Severe Acute Pancreatitis Model using Retrograde Injection of Sodium Taurocholate into the Biliopancreatic Duct
Published on: April 1, 2022
A pilot study of the antioxidant effect of curcumin in tropical pancreatitis
S Durgaprasad1, C Ganesh Pai, Vasanthkumar
1Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India.
Background & Objectives:
Oxidative stress occurs in association with painful exacerbations of chronic pancreatitis and antioxidant supplementation appears to benefit this condition. Curcumin, the active constituent of turmeric, is known to exhibit antioxidant activity. This pilot study was therefore undertaken to evaluate the effect of oral curcumin with piperine on the pain, and the markers of oxidative stress in patients with tropical pancreatitis (TP).
Methods:
Twenty consecutive patients with tropical pancreatitis were randomised to receive 500 mg of curcumin with 5 mg of piperine, or placebo for 6 wk, and the effects on the pattern of pain, and on red blood cell levels of malonyldialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) were assessed.
Results:
There was a significant reduction in the erythrocyte MDA levels following curcumin therapy compared with placebo; with a significant increase in GSH levels. There was no corresponding improvement in pain.
Interpretation & Conclusion:
Oral curcumin with piperine reversed lipid peroxidation in patients with tropical pancreatitis. Further studies with large sample are needed to define its effect on the pain and other manifestations of tropical pancreatitis.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction

