Modulatory Effect of α-tocopherol in Simvastatin and Gemfibrozil Induced Rhabdomyolysis in Rats

reductase inhibitors are the most widely used drug for the treatment of hyperlipidemias but their long term use is associated with rhabdomyolysis. Administration of simvastatin (80 mg/kg, p.o.) and gemfibrozil (600mg/kg, p.o. twice) for 30 days produced significant increase in the level of various serum parameters (creatine Phospho kinase, urea and blood urea nitrogen) indicating development of rhabdomyolysis in rats as well as development of renal complications. Administration of simvastatin + gemfibrozil also caused significant increase in the level of lipid peroxidation and decrease in the antioxidant enzymes (reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase) level in rats. α-tocopherol (1gm/kg, p.o) was given to prevent rhabdomyolysis caused by simvastatin + gemfibrozil combination.