Related Experiment Videos
The effect of naftidrofuryl ('Praxilene') on hepatic microsomal enzymes
Abstract:
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was carried out in 32 male patients to assess the effect of naftidrofuryl (40 mg i.m. 3-times for 6 days) on their serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) levels. This enzyme is one of the hepatic microsomal enzymes and is now considered to be a reliable biochemical marker of enzyme induction. Measurements of serum GGT before and after treatment showed that there was no significant difference in levels between the two groups of patients. The results showed that naftidrofuryl did not increase serum GGT levels, in fact the mean post-treatment levels (36.06 +/- 10.63 I.U./l) were found to be lower than those before treatment (60.59 +/- 28.37 I.U./l). It is concluded, therefore, that naftidrofuryl may not induce hepatic microsomal enzymes and that interference with rates of metabolism, via enzyme induction, of other drugs used concurrently need not be anticipated.
Insights
Naftidrofuryl did not significantly alter serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) levels in male patients. This suggests naftidrofuryl does not induce hepatic microsomal enzymes, minimizing drug interaction concerns.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is a marker for hepatic microsomal enzyme induction.
- Assessing drug effects on liver enzymes is crucial for predicting drug metabolism and interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of naftidrofuryl on serum GGT levels.
- To determine if naftidrofuryl induces hepatic microsomal enzymes.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
- 32 male patients received naftidrofuryl (40 mg i.m. 3-times daily for 6 days) or placebo.
- Serum GGT levels were measured before and after treatment.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in serum GGT levels was observed between the naftidrofuryl and placebo groups.
- Mean post-treatment GGT levels in the naftidrofuryl group were lower than pre-treatment levels.
- Naftidrofuryl did not elevate serum GGT, indicating no significant enzyme induction.
Conclusions:
- Naftidrofuryl does not appear to induce hepatic microsomal enzymes.
- Concerns regarding naftidrofuryl interfering with the metabolism of concurrently used drugs via enzyme induction are likely unfounded.