2-Hydroxybenzohydrazide as a novel potential candidate against nociception, inflammation, and pyrexia: in vitro, in vivo, and computational approaches.

The current study was designed to evaluate the 2-hydroxybenzohydrazide (HBH) as a drug having efficacy against pyrexia, inflammation, and nociception. Besides, the therapeutic effects of HBH on oxidative stress and C-reactive proteins were also evaluated. The pharmacological studies on HBH (20-60 mg/kg) were conducted using nociception, inflammation, and pyrexia standard models. Naloxone antagonism was performed to assess the possible involvement of opioidergic mechanisms. The antioxidant study was conducted on ABTS and DPPH assays using gallic acid as a standard. Moreover, the binding capability of HBH with enzymes cyclooxygenase-I/II (COX-I/II) was determined using molecular modeling analysis. The findings indicated that the HBH dose-dependently inhibited pain, inflammation, and pyrexia. The HBH has significant anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities at 60 mg/kg (***p < 0.001), similar to the lower doses of diclofenac sodium (50 mg/kg) and tramadol (30 mg/kg). The HBH at 60 mg/kg reduced pyrexia as paracetamol (150 mg/kg). The HBH at 20-60 mg/kg doses declined the plasma C-reactive protein concentration. The mechanistic studies showed that the anti-nociceptive effect of HBH was antagonized by naloxone, indicating that the opioidergic mechanisms are involved. Furthermore, computational studies showed that the HBH exhibited an affinity for COX-I/II target receptors. The HBH significantly inhibited ABTS and DPPH radicals (IC50 = 33.81 and 26.74 µg/ml). These results proposed that the HBH has significant antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nociceptive activities involving opioidergic mechanism.

Management of Nasya-induced pyrexia in a patient with refractive error and migraine: a case report.

A 23 year old young lady was admitted for Ayurveda treatments of her refractive error coupled with migraine. She was put on Shadbindu Taila Nasya, 24 drops in both her nostrils immediately the next day. Within 6 h of performing Nasya, the patient started developing pyrexia which was initially of low grade, and later, within 6 h, went on to high-grade. Nasya was suspended, and rescue Ayurveda medicines were started but had no improvement. The patient later self-medicated an antipyretic drug, and with a single dose, the high-grade pyrexia came down to normal. Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale recording gave a score of six, which shows that the AE could be probably due to Nasya with Shadbindu Taila. This case report adds evidence to the medical database of under-reported/poorly reported adverse effects (AE) cases of Nasya therapy. It shows that Nasya is not a 100 % complication and adverse effect free treatment, but rather has to be done with extreme caution. This case report highlights that effective Ayurveda principle based preparatory treatments are also to be done before initiating Nasya to minimize the chances of adverse effects. This case report also suggests practicing a test dose of Nasya, before initiating a high dose, so as to detect adverse events and prevent severe complications.

Biological Functions of Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. Against Pain, Inflammation, Fever, Diarrhea, and Thrombosis: Evidenced From in vitro, in vivo, and Molecular Docking Study.

Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. is traditionally used to treat cancer, wound healing, diabetes, and diarrhea in local tribes. This study was designed to evaluate the pharmacological potentiality of this plant. In vivo analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic studies of the methanol extracts of D. pentagyna (MEDP) leaves were performed by using acetic acid-induced nociception, formalin-induced paw licking, and yeast-induced pyrexia assay methods, respectively. In vivo antidiarrheal activity was carried out in mice by following castor oil-induced diarrhea and gastrointestinal transit manner. In vitro thrombolytic experiment was performed employing the clot lysis activity. Besides, a molecular docking study was performed by executing the software (PyRx, Discovery Studio, and UCSF Chimera). In the acetic acid-induced writhing study, MEDP possesses significant writhing inhibition in a dose-dependent manner. It showed 50.86% of maximum inhibition of pain in the case of MEDP at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight. In the anti-inflammatory study, maximum inhibition rate was observed at a value of 59.98 and 41.29% in early and late phases, respectively, at the dose of 400 mg/kg body weight. In the case of yeast-induced hyperpyrexia, MEDP reduced hyperpyrexia in a dose-dependent manner. In the antidiarrheal assay, MEDP moderately inhibited the occurrence of diarrhea in all the experiments. In the thrombolytic study, a moderate (17.76%) clot lysis potency has been yielded by MEDP. Again, the molecular docking simulation revealed strong binding affinities with almost all the targeted proteins. The present study suggests that the MEDP possesses remarkable pharmacological activity and this finding validated the ethnobotanical significance of D. pentagyna as the source of pain, fever, and diarrhea management agent.

Antipyretic activity of Caesalpinia digyna (Rottl.) leaves extract along with phytoconstituent's binding affinity to COX-1, COX-2, and mPGES-1 receptors: In vivo and in silico approaches.

Caesalpinia digyna (Rottl.) (Family: Fabaceae) is well known for its numerous medicinal values against several human disorders including fever, senile pruritis, diarrhea, tuberculosis, tonic disorder, diabetes, etc. The current study is intended to investigate the in vivo antipyretic activity of the methanol extract of C. digyna leaves (MECD) and its carbon-tetrachloride (CTCD) and butanol fraction (BTCD). Besides, in silico molecular docking and ADME/T profiling of the selective identified bioactive compounds of C. digyna has been also studied to validate the experimental outcomes and establish a better insight into the possible receptor-ligand interaction affinity. In vivo antipyretic activity of MECD, CTCD and BTCD were evaluated by employing yeast induced pyrexia technique in mice model and in silico analysis of the identified compounds of C. digyna has been implemented using PyRx autodock vina, Discovery Studio 2020, UCSF Chimera software and ADME/T online tools. MECD and BTCD unveiled significant antipyretic activity in dose dependent manner whereas, CTCD failed to exhibit significant antipyretic activity. Comparing to other test sample, MECD (400 mg/kg; b.w) (p < 0.001) displayed maximum inhibition of pyrexia. In molecular docking approach, docking score between -6.60 to -10.20 kcal/mol have been revealed. Besides, in ADME/T analysis, no compound violated the lipiniski's 5 rules and displayed any toxicity. Biological and computational approaches ascertain the ethno-botanical use of C. digyna as a good agent against pyrexia and the compounds of C. digyna are primarily proved as safe. Hereafter, further analysis is suggested to validate this research.

Screening of differential components of Gegenqinlian decoction and their comparative pharmacokinetics in normal and pyrexia rats using UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS and UHPLC-MS/MS.

UHPLC combined with Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance MS metabonomic approach was employed to screen the differential components between normal rats and yeast-induced pyrexia rats after an oral administration of Gegenqinlian decoction (GQLD). Nine compounds, namely puerarin, daidzein, baicalin, wogonoside, wogonin, berberine, palmatine, jateorhizine, and coptisine, were identified as differential components in the plasma. A rapid, sensitive, selective, and accurate UHPLC-MS method was developed and fully validated for the simultaneous determination of the screened components in rat plasma after an oral administration of GQLD. The values for the limit of quantification ranged from 0.025 to 5.0 ng/mL. The inter- and intra-day precision of all analytes was ≤10.7%, with an accuracy of ≤10.5%. Good extraction recovery and matrix effects were also obtained. The method was successfully applied to a comparative pharmacokinetic study of GQLD in normal and pyrexia rats. The results showed that the pharmacokinetic behavior of the analytes was changed in pyrexia rats compared to normal rats. These results could provide beneficial guidance for clinical applications of GQLD.

Assessment of pharmacological activities of Lygodium microphyllum Cav. leaves in the management of pain, inflammation, pyrexia, diarrhea, and helminths: In vivo, in vitro and in silico approaches.

Lygodium microphyllum Cav. (Family: Lygodiaceae) is a perennial, snake fern and an invasive weed in Florida and also known as old world climbing fern. This study is intended to evaluate the antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antidiarrheal and anthelmintic activity of methanol extract of Lygodium microphyllum Cav. leaves (MELM) by in vivo, in vitro and in silico approaches. In addition, Biovia, PyRx autoDock Vina, UCSF Chimera have been applied to investigate the docking study in order to evaluate the binding interaction and an online tool was used to explore the ADME/T properties of selected bioactive compounds. In acetic acid induced writhing study, MELM inhibited 44.28% and 56.61% of writhes at 200 and 400 (mg/kg) respectively compared to standard drug Diclofenac-Na (10 mg/kg) (74.42% inhibition). In anti-inflammatory experiment by formalin triggered licking method, MELM caused significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of licking in both early phase (42.97%, 63.30%) and late phase (43.35%, 63.03%) at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg respectively, whereas reference drug Ibuprofen inhibited paw licking 77.18% in early phase and 76.86% in late phase. MELM also showed promising antipyretic potential where the maximum reduction of fever was produced by MELM 400 mg/kg whose fever lowering capacity is close to the prescribe drug Indomethacin 4 mg/kg, i.p. In Castor oil triggered diarrhea method, MELM delayed the onset time of diarrhea, continuous persistence of wet feces, and decreased the weight of wet feces remarkably. Defection inhibition was achieved 27.56% and 51.72%, for MELM 200 and at 400 (mg/kg) respectively while loperamide 2 (mg/kg) yields 55.17% inhibition of the diarrheal defecation. In anthelmintic bioassay, MELM took 5.83 ± 0.83 and 41.67 ± 1.78 min respectively for paralyzing and death compared to standard drug albendazole; (paralysis time 4.00 ± 0.73 min and death time 31,00 ± 1.71 min). Isoeleutherol, isoquercetin and quercetin were found prominent in molecular docking study and ADME/T analysis verified their drug likeliness. The research validates the moderate analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and remarkable antipyretic, antidiarrheal, anthelmintic activities of the plant extract which can be used an alternative source of novel therapeutics.

Herbal Medications Used to Treat Fever.

Fever is a natural body defense and a common symptom of disease. Herbs have been used for thousands of years to treat fever. Many herbs have anti-inflammatory properties. Some are useful in reducing the release of cytokines and mediators of inflammation, whereas others work as natural aspirins to inhibit cyclooxygenase. In addition, herbs have known antipathogenic properties and can be effective in the treatment of infection from numerous microorganisms. Last, in traditional Chinese medicine, herbs are used to restore imbalances between the nonpathogenic and the pathogenic clearing interior heat and treating heat patterns in a variety of ways.

Pharmacological investigation of analgesic and antipyretic activities of methanol extract of the whole part of Aeginetia indica.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Aeginetia indica (Linn.), commonly known as aankuri bankuri, guan-jen-huang, forest ghost flower, dok din daeng, dapong tubo; is a root parasitic plant of the Orobanchaceae family native to South and South-East Asian region. Different parts of the plant are traditionally used to treat fever, pain, inflammation, arthritis, cough, diabetes, and chronic liver disease. Local practitioners often recommend this plant as a folk remedy for dermal swelling, painful menstrual periods, wounds, and knee pain. However, the antipyretic and analgesic activity of A. indica have never been investigated. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study was aimed to evaluate the analgesic and antipyretic potential of Aeginetia indica plant extract to verify its effectiveness as reported in traditional uses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Preliminary phytochemical analysis of Aeginetia indica crude extract was performed using previously established methods and antioxidant capacity was determined by phosphomolybdenum assay. In vivo analgesic activity of Aeginetia indica methanol extract (AiME) was evaluated by acetic acid-induced writhing test, formalin-induced paw licking test, and hot plate test model. The antipyretic activity was studied in Baker's yeast induced pyrexia model. RESULTS: Phytochemicals screening revealed cardiac glycosides, saponins, phenols, tannins, and flavonoids in the crude extract of Aeginetia indica. Total phenolic and flavonoid content were recorded as 101 ± 1.1 mg GAE/g of the extract and 35 ± 0.8 mg QE/g of the extract, respectively. The total antioxidant capacity observed in phosphomolybdenum assay was 68.3 ± 1.3 mg ascorbic acid equivalent per gram of the extract. AiME showed significant dose-dependent analgesic activity against acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin-induced paw licking, and hot plate pain model. A higher dose of A. indica (200 mg/kg) produced significant (P < 0.001) inhibition of writhing by 69% whereas, standard aspirin showed maximum 85.6% inhibition. AiME at all doses showed a significant (P < 0.001) decrease of paw licking time in both early neurogenic and late inflammatory pain phase of formalin-induced licking test. In the hot plate test, AiME at a 200 mg/kg dose produced antinociceptive activity (55.18%) higher than the standard ketorolac (49.88%) at 1 h. However, after 2 h, ketorolac showed a maximum effect of 62.66% and AiME 200 mg/kg showed a 60.24% effect. A significant (P < 0.001) reduction of rectal temperature (4.54 °F↓) was recorded for AiME 200 mg/kg, which was higher than the standard paracetamol (3.86 F°↓) after 24 h of treatment. CONCLUSION: The in vivo investigational studies' results demonstrated promising analgesic and antipyretic activities of A. indica, which supported the claim of its folk uses.

Investigation on the function tropism of Tiaoqin and Kuqin (different specification of Scutellaria baicalensis) by comparing their curative effect on different febrile disease model.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Scutellaria baicalensis (S. baicalensis) is the root of S. baicalensis Georgi. In traditional Chinese medicine it is divided into Tiaoqin (TQ, 1-3 years old) and Kuqin (KQ, more than 3 years old). However, the differences in TQ and KQ efficacy and their exact mechanisms are still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to clarify the difference in the efficacy of TQ and KQ in relation to different fever types (damp heat and hyperpyrexia) by using rat models, as well as to determine the primary molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study compared the compositional content of TQ and KQ by UPLC-MS/MS. Then, rat models of hyperpyrexia (HP, LPS) and damp heat (DH, high-fat and high-sugar diet feeding + fumigation in artificial climate chamber + E. coli injection) were established and their clinical symptoms, blood biochemistry, histopathological sections, cell cytokines and protein expression were compared following treatment with TQ or KQ. Finally, the mechanisms underpinning the differences observed for TQ and KQ were determined by measuring the components of these treatments in different target organs. RESULTS: This study identified 31 compounds in the water extracts of both TQ and KQ, which differed significantly in their relative content. TQ and KQ showed different functional tropism in HP and DH model rats. Baicalin, wogonoside, oroxin A, baicalein, wogonin and oroxylin A appeared to be the basic functional components responsible for the functional tropism hypothesis, while the remaining compounds appeared to be the efficacy-oriented components. In addition, the difference in pharmacodynamics between TQ and KQ may be related to their absorption in vivo, which was consistent with the hypothesis of functional tropism proposed in this work. CONCLUSION: In this study we adopted TQ and KQ-different specifications of Scutellaria baicalensis with similar chemical components-as a case study to systematically reveal the functional tropism of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM). The results showed that TQ and KQ contain the basic functional components to enable the basic function of 'clearing heat', while the variation in compositional content may result in their different therapeutic effects. A greater understanding and utilisation of the functional tropism of CHM would enormously improve the accuracy and scientific basis for the application of CHM medication, as well as in promoting the multi-function mechanism of CHM and guiding new drug development of CHM.

Hyponatremia presenting with hourly fluctuating urine osmolality.

SUMMARY: The etiology of hyponatremia is assessed based on urine osmolality and sodium. We herein describe a 35-year-old Asian man with pulmonary tuberculosis and perforated duodenal ulcer who presented with hyponatremia with hourly fluctuating urine osmolality ranging from 100 to 600 mosmol/kg, which resembled urine osmolality observed in typical polydipsia and SIADH simultaneously. Further review revealed correlation of body temperature and urine osmolality. Since fever is a known non-osmotic stimulus of ADH secretion, we theorized that hyponatremia in this patient was due to transient ADH secretion due to fever. In our case, empiric exogenous glucocorticoid suppressed transient non-osmotic ADH secretion and urine osmolality showed highly variable concentrations. Transient ADH secretion-related hyponatremia may be underrecognized due to occasional empiric glucocorticoid administration in patients with critical illnesses. Repeatedly monitoring of urine chemistries and interpretation of urine chemistries with careful review of non-osmotic stimuli of ADH including fever is crucial in recognition of this etiology. LEARNING POINTS: Hourly fluctuations in urine osmolality can be observed in patients with fever, which is a non-osmotic stimulant of ADH secretion. Repeated monitoring of urine chemistries aids in the diagnosis of the etiology underlying hyponatremia, including fever, in patients with transient ADH secretion. Glucocorticoid administration suppresses ADH secretion and improves hyponatremia even in the absence of adrenal insufficiency; the etiology of hyponatremia should be determined carefully in these patients.

Metabonomic analysis of plasma biochemical changes in pyrexia rats after treatment with Gegenqinlian decoction, aspirin and itraconazole by UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS / 药物分析学报

A metabonomic approach involving an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography combined with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS) was used to investi-gate the changes in the endogenous metabolites in the plasma of rats with yeast-induced pyrexia treated with Gegenqinlian decoction (GQLD), aspirin and itraconazole. The differences in the small molecule profiles of treatment using traditional Chinese medicine, etiological treatment and symptomatic treat-ment were elucidated. Thirty-six plasma metabolites were identified or putatively identified, and the effects of the three medicines on the thirty-six metabolites were studied. Their metabolic pathways indicated that GQLD, aspirin and itraconazole ameliorated the rats with yeast-induced pyrexia pre-dominantly by regulating the metabolisms of phospholipid, sphingolipid, fatty acid oxidation, fatty acid amides, amino acid and glycerolipid in vivo. The pharmacodynamics and metabonomic results showed that the three medicines exhibited the therapeutic effects on pyrexia by regulating the perturbations of multiple metabolisms. The study provided a scientific basis for an in-depth understanding of the ther-apeutic effects of GQLD, aspirin and itraconazole on rats with yeast-induced pyrexia.

Metabonomic analysis of plasma biochemical changes in pyrexia rats after treatment with Gegenqinlian decoction, aspirin and itraconazole by UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS.

A metabonomic approach involving an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography combined with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS) was used to investigate the changes in the endogenous metabolites in the plasma of rats with yeast-induced pyrexia treated with Gegenqinlian decoction (GQLD), aspirin and itraconazole. The differences in the small molecule profiles of treatment using traditional Chinese medicine, etiological treatment and symptomatic treatment were elucidated. Thirty-six plasma metabolites were identified or putatively identified, and the effects of the three medicines on the thirty-six metabolites were studied. Their metabolic pathways indicated that GQLD, aspirin and itraconazole ameliorated the rats with yeast-induced pyrexia predominantly by regulating the metabolisms of phospholipid, sphingolipid, fatty acid oxidation, fatty acid amides, amino acid and glycerolipid in vivo. The pharmacodynamics and metabonomic results showed that the three medicines exhibited the therapeutic effects on pyrexia by regulating the perturbations of multiple metabolisms. The study provided a scientific basis for an in-depth understanding of the therapeutic effects of GQLD, aspirin and itraconazole on rats with yeast-induced pyrexia.

A rare cause of postpartum acute hyponatremia.

A previously healthy 24-year-old female underwent an emergent caesarean section without a major bleeding described. During the first post-operative days (POD) she complained of fatigue, headache and a failure to lactate with no specific and conclusive findings on head CT. On the following days, fever rose with a suspicion of an obstetric surgery-related infection, again with no evidence to support the diagnosis. On POD5 a new-onset hyponatremia was documented. The urine analysis suggested SIADH, and following a treatment failure, further investigation was performed and demonstrated both central hypothyroidism and adrenal insufficiency. The patient was immediately treated with hydrocortisone followed by levothyroxine with a rapid resolution of symptoms and hyponatremia. Further laboratory investigation demonstrated anterior hypopituitarism. The main differential diagnosis was Sheehan's syndrome vs lymphocytic hypophysitis. Brain MRI was performed as soon as it was available and findings consistent with Sheehan's syndrome confirmed the diagnosis. Lifelong hormonal replacement therapy was initiated. Further complaints on polyuria and polydipsia have led to a water deprivation testing and the diagnosis of partial central insipidus and appropriate treatment with DDAVP. Learning points: Sheehan's syndrome can occur, though rarely, without an obvious major post-partum hemorrhage. The syndrome may resemble lymphocytic hypophysitis clinically and imaging studies may be crucial in order to differentiate both conditions. Hypopituitarism presentation may be variable and depends on the specific hormone deficit. Euvolemic hyponatremia workup must include thyroid function test and 08:00 AM cortisol levels.

Anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive and antipyretic activity of young and old leaves of Vernonia amygdalina.

BACKGROUND: Both young and old leaves of Vernonia amygdalina (VA) are traditionally used to treat inflammation, pain and fever. However, the efficacy of young and old leaves for treating these ailments have not been compared till date. AIM: To ascertain the effect of young and old leaves of VA in managing inflammation, pain and fever. METHODS: Both quantitative and qualitative phytochemical screening of ethanol extracts of young (EthYL) and old (EthOL) leaves of VA were performed. The anti-inflammatory activity of orally administered EthYL and EthOL (50-200 mg/kg) and Diclofenac (10 mg/kg) were evaluated in carrageenan-induced inflammation model in rats. Antipyretic activity of EthYL, EthOL and Aspirin (25 mg/kg) were assessed in the Baker's yeast-induced pyrexia model. Anti-allodynic effect of both extracts were evaluated by inserting inflamed paws of rats in cold water. Antinociceptive property of the extracts were assessed using tail withdrawal and formalin-induced nociception test. Histopathological examination of the paws was performed, in addition to formalin test to understand the possible mechanism of action of the extracts. Negative control rats received 2 ml/kg normal saline in all tests. RESULTS: The amount of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and phenolics were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in EthOL than EthYL, while saponins were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in EthYL than EthOL. The antioxidant ability and total antioxidant capacity were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in EthYL than EthOL. However, this was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the anti-oxidant activity of Ascorbic acid. A dose-dependent increase in anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and antinociceptive properties were observed in both EthYL and EthOL, similar to the standard drugs. Mast cell degranulation accompanied by vasodilatation and high leukocytosis were observed in the negative control, but were markedly low in extract treated groups. Both extracts mediated their analgesic effect through opioidergic and nitric oxide pathways with EthYL additionally implicating the muscarinic cholinergic system. CONCLUSION: Although both EthYL and EthOL alleviate inflammation, pyrexia and nociception, EthYL of VA was found to be more potent than EthOL.

Brain Metabolomics Reveal the Antipyretic Effects of Jinxin Oral Liquid in Young Rats by Using Gas Chromatography⁻Mass Spectrometry.

Pyrexia is considered as a part of host's defense response to the invasion of microorganisms or inanimate matter recognized as pathogenic or alien, which frequently occurs in children. Jinxin oral liquid (JXOL) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula that has been widely used to treat febrile children in China. Experimental fever was induced by injecting yeast into young male Sprague-Dawley rats (80 ± 20 g) and the rectal temperature subsequently changed. Four hours later, the excessive production of interleukin (IL)-1ß and prostaglandin (PG) E2 induced by yeast was regulated to normal by JXOL administration. A rat brain metabolomics investigation of pyrexia of yeast and antipyretic effect of JXOL was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Clear separation was achieved between the model and normal group. Twenty-two significantly altered metabolites were found in pyretic rats as potential biomarkers of fever. Twelve metabolites, significantly adjusted by JXOL to help relieve pyrexia, were selected out as biomarkers of antipyretic mechanism of JXOL, which were involved in glycolysis, purine metabolism, tryptophan mechanism, etc. In conclusion, the brain metabolomics revealed potential biomarkers in the JXOL antipyretic process and the associated pathways, which may aid in advanced understanding of fever and therapeutic mechanism of JXOL.

Antenatal Deworming and Materno-Perinatal Outcomes in Calabar, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that administration of anthelmintic drugs in pregnancy can reduce the incidence of maternal anaemia; however, data on other maternal and perinatal outcomes are limited. AIM: This study was therefore conducted to evaluate the direct impact of mass deworming on delivery and perinatal outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 560 healthy pregnant women in their second trimester were randomised to receive a single dose of oral mebendazole (500 mg) and placebo. Each participant received the standard dose of iron supplement and malaria prophylaxis. They were followed up to delivery and immediate postpartum period to document the possible impact on maternal and perinatal outcomes. RESULTS: The prevalence of anaemia at term, 37 weeks gestation and above, among the treatment arm was 12.6% compared with 29.9% in the placebo arm (p < 0.001). Caesarean section rates was higher in the treated group and the placebo (p = 0.047). There were no statistically significant differences in incidences of postpartum haemorrhage (p = 0.119), Puerperal, pyrexia (p = 0.943), low birth weight (p = 0.556) asphyxia (p = 0.706) and perinatal death (p = 0.621). CONCLUSION: Presumptive deworming during the antenatal period can significantly reduce the incidence of peripartum anaemia. However, more studies may be needed to prove any positive perinatal outcome.

Albizia zygia (DC.) J.F. Macbr. (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) root extract exhibits anti-nociceptive and antipyretic activities in murine models.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The root extract of Albizia zygia (DC.) J.F. Macbr. (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) is traditionally used in the management of pain and fever. However, little scientific data exists in literature to support its use. AIM OF STUDY: The present study evaluated the anti-nociceptive and antipyretic properties of the hydroethanolic extract of the roots of Albizia zygia in animal models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The analgesic effects were investigated in chemical (acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing and formalin tests), thermal (tail-immersion test) and mechanical (carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia) pain models. Possible mechanisms of anti-nociception were also assessed with antagonists in the formalin test. The anti-pyretic effect was evaluated using the baker yeast-induced pyrexia model in young rats. RESULTS: The extract (30-300mg/kg, p.o.) and positive controls, diclofenac (3-30mg/kg, i.p.) and morphine (1-10mg/kg, i.p.), significantly (at least P<0.01) attenuated acetic acid-induced visceral pain, formalin- induced paw pain (both neurogenic and inflammatory), thermal pain as well as carrageenan-induced mechanical hyperalgesia in animals. The anti-nociceptive effect of the extract was reversed (at least P<0.05) by the pre-emptive administration of naloxone and atropine; the administration of theophylline, however, exhibited no significant (P>0.05) inhibition of anti-nociception. The extract (30-300mg/kg, p.o) and paracetamol (15-150mg/kg, p.o.) both reversed yeast-induced pyrexia in rats with ED50 values of 48.59±2.59 and 26.19±1.33mg/kg respectively. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that the extract possesses significant anti-nociceptive and antipyretic effects which justify its traditional use in the management of pain and fever. Also, anti-nociceptive effect of the extract involves opioidergic and muscarinic cholinergic mechanisms.

Pharmacological profile of the aerial parts of Rubus ulmifolius Schott.

BACKGROUND: As aerial parts of Rubus ulmifolius contains phytochemicals like flavonoids and tannins. And whereas flavonoids and tannins have antioxidant and antipyretic activity, hence, current work is carried out to screen crude methanolic extract of aerial parts of Rubus ulmifolius (Ru.Cr) and crude flavonoids rich extract of Rubus ulmifolius (Ru.F) for possible antioxidant and antipyretic activity. Ru.Cr and Ru.F are also tested for brine shrimps lethality bioassay. Ru.F is tested for the first time for possible antioxidant and antipyretic activity. METHODS: Preliminary phytochemical screening of Ru.Cr and Ru.F was performed as it provides rapid finger printing for targeting a pharmacological activity. Acute toxicity and Brine shrimps' cytotoxicity studies of Ru.Cr and Ru.F were performed to determine its safe dose range. Antioxidant and antipyretic studies were also performed as per reported procedures. RESULTS: Ru.Cr tested positive for presence of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids and steroids. Ru.Cr is safe up to 6 g/kg following oral doses for acute toxicity study. Ru.Cr is safe up to 75 µg/kg (p.o), LC50 for Ru.Cr and Ru.F are 16.7 ± 1.4 µg/ml 10.6 ± 1.8 µg/ml, respectively (n = 3). Both Ru.Cr and Ru.F demonstrated comparable antioxidant activity using vitamin C as standard (p ≤ 0.05). In test dose of 300 mg of Ru.Cr, rectal temperature was reduced by 74% (p ≤ 0.05) on 4th hour of the administration. More, Ru.F produced 72% reduction in pyrexia (p ≤ 0.05) on 4th hour of administration of paracetamol in Westar rats. CONCLUSIONS: The current work confirms that aerial parts of Rubus ulmifolius contain flavonoids that are safe up to 6 g/kg (p.o). Crude methanolic extract and flavonoids rich fraction of Rubus ulmifolius have significant antioxidant and antipyretic activity. Further work is required to isolate the pharmacologically active substances for relatively safe and effective antipyretics and antioxidants.

An evaluation of the anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic effects of hydroethanol leaf extract of Albizia zygia in animal models.

CONTEXT: The leaves of Albizia zygia (DC.) J.F. Macbr. (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) are used in Ghanaian traditional medicine for the treatment of pain, inflammatory disorders and fever (including malaria). OBJECTIVES: The present study evaluated the anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic effects of the hydroethanol leaf extract of Albizia zygia (AZE) in animal models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects of AZE were examined in the carrageenan-induced foot oedema model and the baker's yeast-induced pyrexia test respectively. The analgesic effect and possible mechanisms of action were also assessed in the formalin test. RESULTS: AZE (30-300 mg/kg, p.o.), either preemptively or curatively, significantly inhibited carrageenan-induced foot edema in 7-day-old chicks (ED50 values; preemptive: 232.9 ± 53.33 mg/kg; curative: 539.2 ± 138.28 mg/kg). Similarly, the NSAID diclofenac (10-100 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced the oedema in both preemptive (ED50: 21.16 ± 4.07 mg/kg) and curative (ED50: 44.28 ± 5.75 mg/kg) treatments. The extract (30-300 mg/kg, p.o.) as well as paracetamol (150 mg/kg, p.o.) also showed significant antipyretic activity in the baker's yeast-induced pyrexia test (ED50 of AZE: 282.5 ± 96.55 mg/kg). AZE and morphine (1-10 mg/kg, i.p.; positive control), exhibited significant analgesic activity in the formalin test. The analgesic effect was partly or wholly reversed by the systemic administration of naloxone, theophylline and atropine. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that AZE possesses anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic properties, which justifies its traditional use. Also, the results show the involvement of the opioidergic, adenosinergic and the muscarinic cholinergic pathways in the analgesic effects of AZE.

Pharmacological screening of Monotheca buxifolia (Falc.) A. DC. for antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities.

BACKGROUND: Medicinal plants have proven their importance as a valuable source of molecules with therapeutic potential. Monotheca buxifolia (Falc.) A. DC. (family: Sapotaceae) is traditionally used as a hematinic, laxative, digestive, anthelmintic, antipyretic, and in the treatment of gastro-urinary disorders. To provide scientific evidence for its folkloric use, the present study investigated Monotheca buxifolia fruit hydro-ethanolic extract (MBHE) for its prospective antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities. MBHE was eluted through column chromatography to isolate the bioactive secondary metabolites which may probably involve in its beneficial properties. METHODS: The phytochemical constituents in MBHE was elucidated using UV, IR, (1)H-NMR, (13)C NMR, 2D-NMR spectra in combination with EIMS and FAB-MS spectrometric techniques and comparison with literature data of related compounds. The antinociceptive activity of MBHE was evaluated in the acetic acid induced abdominal constriction assay; the anti-inflammatory potential was assessed in the carrageenan induced paw edema, while the antipyretic effect was tested against brewer's yeast induced pyrexia in BALB/c mice at doses of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg. RESULTS: Elution of MBHE along with various characterization techniques led to the isolation of oleanolic acid and isoquercetin. Significant attenuation of chemical induced nociception was observed with MBHE at tested doses of 50 mg/kg (P < 0.01, 68.87 %), 100 mg/kg (P < 0.01, 68.87 %) and 150 mg/kg (P < 0.001, 83.02 %). During a duration of 1-5 h in the carrageenan induced paw edema assay, significant ameliorative effect (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) was demonstrated by MBHE at 50 mg/kg (22.94-20 %), 100 mg/kg (33.23-21.13 %) and 150 mg/kg (38.23-25 %). MBHE also significantly alleviated the brewer's yeast induced pyrexic response when tested at doses of 50 mg/kg (P < 0.05 in 2nd h), 100 mg/kg (P < 0.05, P < 0.01 and P < 0.001 in 1-5 h) and 150 mg/kg (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001 in 1-5 h). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that Monotheca buxifolia possess pain, inflammation and pyrexia ameliorating properties, probably mediated by the presence of oleanolic acid and isoquercetin contents, though the involvement of other important phytochemicals constituents cannot be ignored.