Nephrotoxic effects of varenicline as the most effective drug used for smoking cessation: a preliminary experimental study

Abstract

Varenicline is a new most effective drug for smoking cessation. Its effect on kidney functions remains unclear. This study purposed to investigate whether varenicline causes nephrotoxicity in rats. Fifteen rats were randomly assigned to three groups: control, 0.0125 mg kg(-1) varenicline and 0.025 mg kg(-1) varenicline (single dose for 3 days, i.p.). Before and after experimental period, serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, creatinine and urea levels were measured. Total oxidant and antioxidant status were measured in kidney homogenates. Histological examination was performed in kidney. The nephrotoxic effects of varenicline were detected by histopathological and biochemical examinations in the varenicline treatment groups. No change was observed in the control group. These findings firstly indicate that a 3-day varenicline treatment causes nephrotoxic effects in rats.