Evaluation of the antioxidant potential of NR-ANX-C (a polyherbal formulation) and its individual constituents in reversing haloperidol-induced catalepsy in mice

Abstract

<b>Objective</b> : To evaluate the possible role of the antioxidant activity of the polyherbal formulation, NR-ANX-C and its individual components in reversing haloperidol-induced catalepsy in Swiss albino mice.<b><br>Materials and Methods</b> : Catalepsy was induced with haloperidol (1 mg/kg <i>i.p</i>) in 13 groups of male albino mice (<i>n</i> = 6 / group). Three groups received NR-ANX-C (10, 25, 50 mg/kg), three groups received <i>Withania somnifera</i> (1.7, 4.25, 8.5 mg/kg), another three groups <i>Ocimum sanctum</i> (1.7, 4.25, 8.5 mg/kg), three other groups <i>Camellia sinensis</i> (3.4, 8.5, 17 mg/kg) and one group received the vehicle (1% <i>Gum acacia</i>) orally, 30 minutes prior to haloperidol administration, for a duration of seven days. Animals were sacrificed on the seventh day and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was estimated in the brain.<b><br>Results</b> : A significant (<i>P </i>< 0.01) reduction in the cataleptic scores was observed in all the drug-treated groups as compared to the control, with maximum reduction in the NR-ANX-C 25 mg/kg group. Similarly, a reduction in SOD activity was observed in the NR-ANX-C-, <i>O. sanctum-</i> and the <i>W. somnifera</i>-treated groups. An increase in SOD activity was observed in the <i>C. sinensis</i>-treated groups.<br><b> Conclusion</b> : With the exception of <i>C. sinensis</i>, the antioxidant potential of NR-ANX-C and its individual constituents has contributed to the reduction in the oxidative stress and the catalepsy induced by haloperidol administration.