Grape Juice on Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity

Andrew Johan ^1*, Irene Uli ², Yosefani Fortunella Yasmine ²

Grape juice elevates alanine transaminase and creatinine, exacerbating paracetamol toxicity. Caution advised when consuming paracetamol with grape juice.

Abstract

Background: Paracetamol, an analgesic and antipyretic widely available without prescription, can cause acute renal failure and severe liver necrosis when consumed in high doses. Its recommended dosage for adults is less than 4 grams per day, with toxicity reported at 10 grams per day. The nephroprotective and hepatoprotective effects of antioxidants, particularly those found in grapes, have been debated. This study aimed to explore the effects of paracetamol and grape extract on serum creatinine and alanine transaminase levels in Wistar rats. Methods: The study, approved by ethical clearance No. 76/EC/FK UNDIP/VII/2021, was conducted at Semarang Public University Laboratory, Indonesia. Twenty-four male Wistar rats (170-200g) were divided into four groups: a control group, a paracetamol-only group (700 mg/kg body weight), a paracetamol (700 mg/kg) plus 1 ml grape juice group, and a paracetamol (700 mg/kg) plus 3 ml grape juice group. Treatments were administered for 14 days, after which blood samples were collected to measure serum creatinine and alanine transaminase levels using spectrophotometry. Results: Paracetamol administration significantly increased serum alanine transaminase levels from 55.42 IU/L ± 4.74 in the control group to 74.28 IU/L ± 11.69. Co-administration with grape juice further elevated these levels, indicating a potential exacerbation of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity. Serum creatinine levels also increased with paracetamol treatment, and further increases were observed with the addition of grape juice. Conclusion: The study concludes that grape juice, known for its high antioxidant content, may aggravate the hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects of paracetamol. These findings suggest caution when consuming paracetamol with grape juice to avoid increased toxicity risks.

Keywords: Paracetamol, Grape juice, Alanine transaminase, Serum creatinine, Antioxidants

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