The Protective Effect of Atorvastatin Against Indomethacin-induced Gastric Ulceration in Rats

Abstract

Background: Gastric ulcer, a disruption of the normal gastric mucosal integrity, poses a significant clinical challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Aim: This study investigated the potential gastroprotective effects of atorvastatin, a statin with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, on indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration in rats. Methodology:  We employed a rat model of indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer to investigate the anti-ulcer potential of atorvastatin. Rats were randomly assigned to nine groups, receiving various doses of atorvastatin (3-19 mg/kg) post-ulcer induction or pre-treated with atorvastatin (10 and 19 mg/kg) prior to ulcer induction. Results: Atorvastatin significantly (p ≤ 0.05) and dose-dependently reduced the ulcer index, with pre-treatment providing superior protection (96% protection at 19 mg/kg) comparable to the standard anti-ulcer drug cimetidine (97%). Notably, pre-treated groups exhibited reduced ulcer indices and enhanced protection compared to treatment groups. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate the potent anti-ulcer effects of atorvastatin, both in treatment and prevention, suggesting its potential repurposing for gastric ulcer management. These observations warrant further clinical investigation to validate the therapeutic efficacy of atorvastatin in gastric ulcer prevention and treatment.