INCREASED SUSCEPTIBILITY TO GASTRIC ULCERATION IN DIABETIC RATS: SYNERGISTIC EFFECT OF QUERCETIN AND PIOGLITAZONE

Objective: This research delves into the potential therapeutic benefits of quercetin, a prominent flavonoid, in addressing diabetes and associated ulcers, emphasizing its synergistic effects with oral hypoglycemic agent, pioglitazone. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats received a high-fat diet and 35 mg/kg streptozotocin to mimic human diabetic condition. These rats were exposed to drug (indomethacin) and alcohol induced gastric ulceration, to study the flavonoid’s effect alone and in combination with pioglitazone (low doses) in type 2 diabetes enhanced gastric mucosa sensitivity towards ulcerogenic insults. Quercetin and pioglitazone administered alone and in combination over eight-week period. OGTT, antioxidant status was estimated at the end of the study. Ulcer score and index were also determined by using respective standards. Results: Monotherapy of pioglitazone (low dose) and quercetin exhibited limited effectiveness in increasing insulin sensitivity and ulcer prevention. Blood sample analyses, unveiled elevated antioxidant levels in the combination group compared to monotherapy. Notably, low dose combinations of quercetin and pioglitazone effectively displayed better healing-promoting properties. The combination of low doses of quercetin and pioglitazone demonstrated superior efficacy in ameliorating resistance towards insulin, physiological restoration, and prevention of stomach ulcers in diabetic rats. Conclusion: The synergistic effects of quercetin and pioglitazone at low doses offers promising avenues for slowing the progression of diabetic gastric ulcers by enhancing antioxidant levels and maintaining physiological balance. Our findings open new possibilities for innovative treatment strategies in the realm of diabetes and related complications.