Effect of Efavirenz on the Histo-architecture of the Liver of Wistar Rats

Abstract

For HIV positive people, the liver is of major importance, as it processes many of the drugs used to treat HIV and AIDS related infections. These same medications can also damage the liver and can prevent it from performing all its necessary functions. This study was carried out to determine the effects of the antiretroviral drug, Efavirenz on the histo-architecture of the liver of albino rats. A total of thirty albino rats were used for the experiment and were randomly divided into five groups of six rats each. Rats in group A served as control and were not administered the drug while rats in test groups B, C, D, and E received varying doses of Efavirenz which were 150mg, 180mg, 210mg and 230mg respectively. Two rats each from each group were sacrificed at the end of week one, two and three respectively. Liver tissues were harvested and preserved with 10% formalin, processed and stained for light microscopy. Result showed normal histological features for the control. Efavirenz did not distort the histo-architecture of groups B, C, and D at the end of the first and second weeks. However, mild liver necroses were observed in groups D and E at the end of week three. Results obtained shows that the effects of Efavirenz on the liver increases with increasing dosage and duration of exposure.