Asiatic acid potentiates the activity of common antidepressant drugs in mice

Conventional pharmacotherapy for depression faces numerous challenges, including side effects. Moreover, less than 50-70% of patients fully respond to treatment, and 20-30% experience recurrence. This has led to a growing interest in alternative treatments, particularly phytotherapy. Among various plant-based compounds, asiatic acid has gained attention due to its multidirectional therapeutic properties.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether asiatic acid could enhance the antidepressant effects of conventional drugs (imipramine, reboxetine, and escitalopram).

The antidepressant-like effect was tested by the forced swim test and in the tail suspension test in male Albino Swiss mice. Additionally, pharmacokinetic studies and biochemical analyses were carried out.

According to obtained results, asiatic acid at a sub-active dose (5 mg/kg) significantly potentiates the antidepressant activity of imipramine (15 mg/kg), reboxetine (2.5 mg/kg), and escitalopram (2 mg/kg). It was demonstrated that asiatic acid (5 mg/kg) did not increase serum or brain levels of the tested antidepressants. However, when given concurrently with escitalopram (2 mg/kg) it elevated concentrations of catalase and glutathione peroxidase as well as decreased levels of TBARS in mice brains. Co-administration of asiatic acid with imipramine (15 mg/kg) and reboxetine (2.5 mg/kg) reduced concentrations of TBARS in the tested tissue.

Our findings give a new light on the potential use of asiatic acid in the management of depression. The terpenoid has antidepressant properties, potentially making it a valuable addition/adjunct to conventional treatment.