Impact of the Exposure to Alprazolam on Oxidative Stress Parameters in Female Rats Hippocampus

ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION: Alprazolam is a medication in the benzodiazepine class, commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. It works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, leading to a calming effect. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and memory problems, while more severe reactions can include confusion or difficulty breathing. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of prolonged exposure to Alprazolam on the Wistar rats. (Griffin et al., 2013)METHODOLOGY: 15 Female rats weighing 240g-270g were procured and divided into 3(5) groups i.e., 5 female rats each are in 0.5mg/kg and 1mg/kg and 5 female are in control group. The control group 1 were administered 0.5ml of phosphate buffer saline. Group 2 were administered 1mg/kg of Alprazolam and Group 3 were administered 0.5mg/kg of Alprazolam. Administration was orally through the use of an oral cannula for 4 weeks. The Wistar rats were sacrificed at the end week 4 by cervical dislocation RESULT: There was increase in the body weight of the female rats administered 0.5mg/kg & 1.0mg/kg of Alprazolam and increase in the brain weight of 0.5mg/kg & 1.0mg/kg Female Wistar rats. The Biochemical results of the Wistar rats for Malondialdehyde indicates an increase in 0.5mg/kg and decrease in 1.0mg/kg compared to the control, While for Glutathione indicates decrease in 0.5mg/kg and increase in 1.0mg/kg compared to the control.DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: From this study, we have been able to see that Alprazolam has effect on the oxidative stress parameter of the Hippocampus of the Wistar rats through an imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and body ability to counteract oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage in the Hippocampus.