Methanolic Extract of Cannabis sativa Ameliorates Rifampin-Induced Nephrotoxicity and Tubular Necrosis in Rats

Purpose: The study was conducted for the renal protective activity of the methanolic extract of Cannabis sativa against renal toxicity induced by rifampin injection in rats. This study selected Cannabis sativa, a member of the Cannabinaceae family, for its widespread use in treating gout, constipation, pain, insomnia, kidney inflammation, and other diseases. The results showed decreased levels of serum urea, creatinine, sodium (Na), and potassium (K) inhibited the induced toxicity. Histopathological examination revealed that the kidney was protected from the marked necrosis of renal tubules caused by rifampin. Methodology: Forty Wister white (albino) rats weighing 100-150 gm were used. We produced renal toxicity by injecting rifampin i/p- at a dose rate of 0.8 mL/kg BW for 28 days, which led to nephrotoxicity. We administered the plant extract by simultaneously administering a methanolic extract of Cannabis sativa orally at dose rates of 300 and 600 mg/kg for 28 days. Findings: Rifampin-induced nephrotoxicity increased potassium, urea, and creatinine levels while decreasing sodium levels. When Cannabis sativa is administered with rifampin, sodium concentrations increase. A decrease in potassium, urea, and creatinine accompanies the increase in sodium levels. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: Flavonoids may be responsible for the nephroprotective effect of Cannabis sativa extract; therefore, more research to identify the active component is necessary.