Modulating efficiency of pentoxifylline on radiation complications in rats

Pentoxifylline (PTX) is a methyl xanthine derivative used to treat vascular diseases. It has antioxidant properties, anti-TNFα effect, increases erythrocytes flexibility, vasodilator and inhibits inflammatory reactions. This study has investigated the influence of PTX (1200 mg/l) in drinking water on radiation-induced changes in blood parameters, Na+ and K+ levels, GSH and MDA in female rats. The effects of fractionated 4 Gy or 8 Gy whole body gamma irradiation (2 Gy every four days) were studied. The 8 Gy dose caused significant decreases in all investigated blood parameters. Significant elevations in plasma levels of Na+ and MDA were detected, while conversely, significant decline was noticed in K+ and GSH levels. PTX treatment along with irradiation ameliorated the changes in blood parameters and the depletion in K+ and GSH levels and also ameliorated the reduction in Naand lipid peroxidation suggesting a potential role in radiation therapy via antioxidant pathway