Modulation of tamoxifen-induced hepatotoxicity by tamoxifen-phospholipid complex

ObjectivesTamoxifen (TMX), a non-steroidal antiestrogen is a first-line drug in the treatment and prevention of all stages of estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer. However, oxidative liver damage and hepatocarcinoma are the major problems associated with its long-term clinical use. The aim of this study was to investigate the ameliorative effect of phospholipid against TMX-induced hepatotoxicity. MethodsFifteen female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups with five rats in each group. Group I received only standard diet and distilled water for 28 days and served as normal. Group II received TMX per day p.o., for 28 days and served as control, and group III received TMX-phospholipid complex (TMX-PLC) per day p.o., for 28 days. Rats were examined for the effect of phospholipid on TMX-induced depletion of antioxidant enzymes, serum biochemical parameters and induction of lipid peroxidation. Key findingsTreatment with TMX-PLC significantly ameliorates the TMX-induced hepatotoxicity by diminishing the toxicity markers such lipid peroxidation, aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, accompanied by an increase in antioxidant enzyme activity in TMX-treated rats. Histological findings further confirmed the hepatoprotective effect of phospholipid. ConclusionsData of the present study suggests that phospholipid may prove as a useful component of combination therapy in cancer patients under the TMX treatment regimen.