Anticonvulsant Effects Virgin Coconut-oil, Sodium-valproate and Phenobarbital in Wistar-Rats

Abstract

A comparative study of the anticonvulsant efficacies of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) and known Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) -Phenobarbital and Sodium Valproate- were undertaken using the method maximal electroshock (MES). The modulatory effect of VCO on regular AEDs was evaluated. Thirty male Wistar rats (180-220 grams) were randomly allocated into six groups of five rats each. Groups IV, V and VI received 10 ml/kg/day/6wks/oral-route of VCO while Groups I, II and III were similarly handled but received 5 ml/kg 0.9% normal saline. After 6 weeks, Groups II and V received 50 mg/kg/i.p Phenobarbital while Groups III and VI received 400 mg/kg/i.p Sodium Valproate. Groups IV and I served as the positive and negative control groups respectively. Thirty (30) minutes after treatment with AEDs, by a slid-up-type voltage regulator: P.I-240V, 50/60Hz; P.O-0-240V, 5AMP, 80volts/60Hz/sec electroshock was delivered through ear-clip electrodes for induction of seizure and the duration of the seizure was noted as the time from seizure onset to when rat shows reflex withdrawal of its limb when extended. Data were analyzed by Student’s t-test. The results showed that seizure duration was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by VCO, Sodium Valproate and Phenobarbital in electroshock induced seizures. The anticonvulsant efficacy of VCO was lower than that of Sodium valproate but comparable with that of Phenobarbital. The reduction effect of Sodium Valproate and Phenobarbital were potentiated when administered together with VCO. Combined-therapy with VCO may be considered for the treatment of epileptic conditions resistant to treatments with Sodium Valproate and Phenobarbital.