Effects of Isolated Cola nitida (Kolanut) Caffeine on Metoclopramide-Induced Parkinsonism in Male Wistar Rat

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of isolated cola nitida caffeine on metoclopramide-induced parkinsonism in male Wistar rat. Thirty (30) male Wistar rat weighing between 140 - 160 grams (g) were used for the research. They were divided into six (6) groups of five (5) rats each. Parkinsonism was induced in the male Wistar rats by chronic administration of Metoclopramide (MCP) dissolved in saline and injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight once daily for 14 days. The normal control group (group A) received standard pellet diet and distilled water ad libitum. Group B was induced with parkinsonism and untreated. Groups C, D and E, were induced with parkinsonism and received 50mg/kg, 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg, respectively, of Cola nitida caffeine extract orally. Group F, also induced with parkinsonism, was treated with 100/25mg/kg Pardopa (levodopa-carbidopa) – the standard drug. This study showed a measurable amelioration of parkinsonian symptoms in the groups treated with Cola nitida caffeine. However, it was concluded in this study that though the potential utility of Cola nitida caffeine as a neuroprotective agent is established, there is need for further research into the implications of this Cola nitida caffeine in the aftermath. The efficacy of Cola nitida caffeine appears to be fairly modest and not without limitations. The standard drug remains a superior choice in managing parkinsonism as it presents with minimal side effects compared to Cola nitida caffeine.