Effect of indomethacin (Non steroidal anti-infilammatory drug) on intestinal permeability and liver functions

Abstract Background Many theories tried to connect liver and gut as they have close anatomical, metabolic, and immunologic connections so exposure to large numbers of foreign molecules coming from the gastrointestinal tract via the portal vein like the bacterial components and other products may lead to liver damage by disturbing intestinal barrier and permeability which can be induced by indomethacin, one of non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs). Aim To investigate whether liver injury is linked to disturbance in intestinal permeability or not. Methodology Indomethacin was used to induce dysbiosis in male Wistar rats which were divided into two groups: Naive and Indomethacin groups. The later was received indomethacin (3mg\kg\day) by oral gavage. Liver function tests, micrbiological and histological studies were performed. Results Indomethacin induced elevation in liver enzymes, bacteremia and histological changes as compared to vehicle group. Conclusions Indomethacin induced dysbiosis with disturbance in the intestinal permeability that yield to hepatic injury.