Abstract

Effects of verapamil on Cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity have been studied in the rats after unilateral nephrectomy and 40 minutes warm ischemia. After surgery rats were divided into four experimental groups; Group I: Surgery only, Group II: Cy 40 mg/kg/day p.o, Group III: Verapamil 5 mg/kg S.C., twice a Day. Group IV: Cy and Verapamil were given doses as indicated in groups II and III. Group II animals (Ischemia + Cy) showed highest Cr levels on day 2, 4, 6, 9, and 14. Cr and urea levels in the Cy + ischemia rats treated with Verapamil (Group IV) had significantly lower than Group H animals. Ultrastructurally Cy nephrotoxicity is characterized by increased numbers of lysosomes in tubular cells, tubular vacuolization and increased collagen around the capillaries. Tubular cell changes were more pronounced in Group II than Group IV. Pretreatment with a calcium channel blocker verapamil has found effective in preventing Cy nephrotoxicity.