Abstract
Background. Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy is a significant side effect of anticancer drugs such as vincristine, leading to increased pain sensitivity and reduced quality of life. Investigations are required to reduce these adverse effects. This study investigated the protective effects of cromolyn sodium and honey against vincristine-induced neuropathy in animal models.
Methods. In this study, 81 male mice were randomly divided into 9 groups and vincristine was administered to induce neuropathy. Various doses of cromolyn sodium (6, 12, and 24 mg/kg, i.p.) and honey (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, i.p.), as well as their combination (cromolyn 6 mg/kg + honey 50 mg/kg, i.p.), were administered. The Hot Plate test was conducted at different time points to assess nociception. Additionally, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured.
Results. Cromolyn sodium (12 mg/kg) and honey (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly alleviated pain sensitivity (P <0.05). Moreover, cromolyn at all studied doses decreased MDA levels (P<0.05), and honey at 200 mg/kg improved TAC (P<0.05). The co-administration of cromolyn sodium (6 mg/kg) and honey (50 mg/kg) did not show a significant synergistic effect on latency time; however, it reduced MDA and elevated TAC (P<0.05).
Conclusion. The findings suggest that cromolyn sodium and honey, especially at optimal doses, may have protective effects against vincristine-induced neuropathy. Further studies are recommended to determine optimal dosages and explore underlying mechanisms.
Practical Implications. The results indicate that cromolyn sodium and honey could be used as supportive treatments to alleviate chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.