Neuroprotective effect of Nevirapine on cerebral ischemic stroke by middle cerebral artery occlusion in wistar rats

Objective: To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Nevirapine on cerebral ischemia stroke by middle cerebral artery occlusion in wistar rats.Methods: The rats were pre and post treated with Nevirapine (NVP) at selective doses (5, 10 mg/kg/g, p.o) for a period of 14 days followed by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Neurobehavioral changes were evaluated by using Y-maze and open field habituation. Biochemical markers such as acetyl cholinesterase (AChE), glutamate, differential leukocyte count (DLC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and catalase were estimated.Results: Obtain results revealed that 14 days of treatment with NVP was effective in averting neurotoxicity. NVP treatment significantly reduced AChE, glutamate, DLC, LDH and elevated levels of antioxidant parameters such as SOD, catalase and GPX..Conclusion: These results clearly revealed that Nevirapine exhibited cognitive improvement which is related to its antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. Further studies are suggested to evaluate molecular mechanism of involved in neuroprotection.