Effect of Meloxicam and Nano-meloxicam on selected haematological and immunological parameters in arthritis-induced male albino rats

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of meloxicam and nano-meloxicam on haematological parameters and cytokine levels in an animal model of arthritis.

Methods: Forty Male albino rats were divided into four groups: Control, Arthritis, Arthritis + Meloxicam, and Arthritis + Nano-Meloxicam. Arthritis was induced by injecting Complete Freund’s adjuvant into the foot pad of albino rats at a dose of 0.1 ml for 14 days. Both Meloxicam and Nano-Meloxicam were administered at doses of 0.6 mg/kg bw for 30 days. Haematological markers, including WBC count, RBC count, haemoglobin, PCV and platelet count, were measured. The differential leukocyte count, consisting of lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, and eosinophils, was analysed. Pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α, were quantified. The one-way ANOVA test was used for comparison, and Fisher’s Least Significant Difference was derived. The p-value was set at 5%.

Results: The arthritis group showed a significant increase in WBC count and a decrease in RBC count, haemoglobin, and packed cell volume, along with an elevated platelet count. This group also presented discrepancies in the differential leukocyte count and higher concentrations of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α. Treatment with meloxicam and nano-meloxicam led to the restoration of haematological parameters and differential leukocyte counts and reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. The Arthritis + Nano-Meloxicam group demonstrated the most beneficial outcomes

Conclusion: The study suggests an enhanced therapeutic efficacy of nano-formulation in addressing the haematological and immunological abnormalities associated with rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the therapeutic value of nano-meloxicam in treating rheumatoid arthritis.