Isoniazid (INH) is the first line drug for the treatment of tuberculosis and can cause nephrotoxicity in human beings and animals. Nephroprotective effects of Morus alba L was studied in healthy albino rabbits (1.25-1.75 kg) of either sex. Rabbits were divided randomly into five groups (n=8). Group 1 was control group. In group II, INH was administered to induce nephrotoxicity at the dose rate of 100mg/kg/day. In group III, INH (100 mg/kg) was administered in combination with silymarin (100 mg/kg). The combined effects of INH (100 mg/kg) and hydroalcoholic extracts of Morus alba at the dose rates of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg were observed in group IV and group V respectively. Biochemical analysis (blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine) showed nephrotoxicity in rabbits receiving only INH while group III and IV showed significant (P<0.05) nephroprotective activity as compared to control group. Histopathological analysis also revealed the nephroprotective effects of Morus alba. HPLC analysis of serum showed the reduced concentration of INH in hydroalcoholic extract treated animals. It can be concluded that INH can induce nephrotoxicity as observed by biochemical, histopathological and HPLC analysis. These changes can be reduced by the concomitant administration of silymarin and hydroalcoholic extract of Morus alba L.

Key words: Isoniazid, Kidney, Morus alba L, Rabbits, Toxicity