Protective Effects of Ginkgo biloba against Methamphetamine-induced Gastric Ulceration and Acid Hypersecretion in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Methamphetamine misuse is a growing global concern, contributing to significant harm to users' internal organs. This study investigated the potential protective effects of Ginkgo biloba extract against the ulcerogenic and gastric-stimulating effects of methamphetamine in Wistar rats. Forty-eight male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n=12); Group one served as control and received no treatment; Group 2 (GB) received Ginkgo biloba (50 mg/kg body weight); Group 3 (METH) received methamphetamine (2.0 mg/kg body weight); Group 4 (GB + METH) received both Ginkgo biloba (50 mg/kg body weight) and methamphetamine (2.0 mg/kg body weight). After 28 days, treatment with Ginkgo biloba significantly (p<0.05) alleviated the adverse effects induced by methamphetamine, including reductions in body and stomach weights, gastric acid and pepsin production, and ulcer scores, all of which reflect gastrointestinal mucosal damage. Methamphetamine intake was also found to disrupt (p<0.05) intestinal transit time, likely due to its impact on the intestinal barrier. The treatment group showed significant increases (p<0.05)  in mucus secretion, pepsin secretion, gastric acid output, ulcer scores, and transit time compared to the other groups. Photomicrographs of the stomach revealed severe distortion of the mucosal cytoarchitecture, infiltration of the submucosal layer with eosinophils, hypertrophy of the muscular mucosa, and degeneration of glandular cells. These findings provide further insight into the physiological changes associated with methamphetamine use and point to potential therapeutic interventions targeting intestinal function. In conclusion, this study highlights the modulatory effects of Ginkgo biloba on METH-induced gastrointestinal alterations, suggesting its influence on intestinal transit and mucosal integrity. While these results advance our understanding of its biological interactions, further research is essential to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and evaluate its translational relevance.