Renoprotective effect of silymarin on tenofovir-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) enjoys widespread use in HIV therapy but is associated with nephrotoxicity. In resource-constrained settings with limited alternatives, strategies to reduce TDF-related kidney damage are essential. This study investigated the nephroprotective and ameliorative effects of Silymarin (SLM) on TDF-induced nephrotoxic rats. Sixty rats were divided into twelve groups and observed over forty-two days. Control groups received distilled water, TDF (600 mg/kg), or SLM (140 mg/kg) alone. Experimental groups received graded doses of SLM as pre-treatment, co-administration, or post-treatment relative to tenofovir exposure. Renal function was assessed using urine output, serum creatinine, urea levels, faecal output, and renal histopathology. Data were analyzed using oneway ANOVA, and significance was set at P0.05). Histopathological evaluation demonstrated dose-dependent attenuation of renal injury in silymarin-treated rats. Silymarin showed a modest renoprotective effect against TDF-induced renal injury, with pre-treatment appearing more protective than co- or posttreatment. This suggests its potential as a nephroprotective agent in TDF-containing regimens.