The present study was performed to determine the hemato-biochemical parameters and pathological alterations induced by meloxicam toxicity in Wistar rats. Thirty adult Wistar rats were divided uniformly into three equal groups viz. Group A, Group B and Group C. Group A rats received only 0.5% Sodium Carboxy Methyl Cellulose (CMC) and it served as vehicle control. Group B (Low dose) and Group C (High dose) rats were given meloxicam in 0.5% sodium CMC @ 4.2 mg/kg b.wt. (1/20th of LD50), 8.4 mg/kg b.wt. (1/10th of LD50) respectively orally by gavage for 28 days. The LD50 of meloxicam is 84 mg/kg b.wt. Meloxicam treated animals showed weakness, lethargy and distended abdomen. A dose dependent significant reduction in Hb, PCV, TEC, MCH, and MCHC were observed while value of TLC and neutrophils count were increased in all treatment group. Biochemically dose dependent significant rise in alkaline phosphatase and decrease in total protein, albumin and globulin were observed. Histopathological sections of stomach, intestine, liver & kidney revealed varying degrees haemorrhage, degeneration, necrosis and ulcer in rats of different treatment groups.Enzyme cyclooxygenase1 (COX-1) maintains the gastric and duodenal lining integrity and renal homeostasis. Meloxicam inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase1 (COX-1) which is responsible to produce the serious gastrointestinal toxicity, such as inflammation, bleeding, ulceration can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms.
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