Exacerbation of Hypersensitivity Reactions in Wistar Rats Following Co-administration of Methanolic Leaf Extract of Azadirachta indica and Ampicloxacillin

Abstract

Azadirachta indica is one of the medicinal plants known for its antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties.; however, its concurrent use with synthetic antibiotics raises concerns regarding potential herb–drug interactions. This study investigated the haematological and immunological effects of methanolic leaf extracts of A. indica, administered alone and in combination with Ampicloxacillin, in Wistar rats. Methanolic extract of A. indica leaves were prepared using a Soxhlet apparatus. Thirty-five adult Wistar rats (150–200 g) were randomly assigned into seven groups (n = 5), including normal and negative controls, a positive control (Ampicloxacillin, 50 mg/kg), extract-treated groups (200 and 400 mg/kg), and combination groups. Treatments were administered orally for 28 days, after which blood samples were collected for analysis. The results showed significant reductions in packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), and platelet counts, particularly in the combination groups. In contrast, white blood cell count, eosinophils, and basophils were significantly elevated (P < 0.05), indicating enhanced immune activation. Immunological markers, including immunoglobulin E (IgE), histamine, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, and TNF-α), were also increased, while the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 decreased. These findings suggest that concurrent use may increase the risk of hypersensitivity reactions, particularly in susceptible individuals. Further studies are required to clarify underlying mechanisms and establish safe therapeutic guidelines