Investigating the Gastro Protective Effects of Tadalafil on Ethanol- Induced and Reserpine –Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

Abstract

This study investigated the potential of tadalafil which is used in the management of erectile dysfunction on ethanol- induced and reserpine –induced gastric ulcer in rats. Gastric ulcer is a prevalent disease with various etiologies, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and alcohol consumption. Drug repurposing is a system whereby drugs already in use are redirected for another therapeutic use. Tadalafil is PDE5 inhibitors. Cialis® which contain 20mg of tadalafil was used. Male rats weighing 180 -252g were orally administered 95% Ethanol at 1ml/200g of rats to induce gastric ulcer at 1h post tadalafil administration. In another group, 5mg/ml of Reserpine in 0.5% acetic acid was administered to rats to induce gastric ulcer, also at 1h post tadalafil administration. Omeprazole was used as standard drugs. After 4h, stomach tissues were removed and assessed for Ulcer Index and Protective ratio. 50mg/kg of tadalafil exhibited a significant reduction in Ulcer Index in reserpine-induced and ethanol-induced models when compared to standard. Tadalafil has gastro protective potential at lower concentration. This study is clinically relevant because it gives clinicians better therapeutic information on the best medications for ulcer treatment as well as insight and alternative therapy for managing gastric ulcers. Pharmaceutical firms may also start to consider combining tadalafil with ulcer regimens, particularly for erectile dysfunction-affected in men.