Study of the Therapeutic Effect of Methylsulfonylmethane in Esophagitis Induced by Alendronate in Rats

Abstract

Background: Esophagitis is a term used to describe inflammation or damage to the lining of the esophagus. One of the factors that can contribute to this condition is the use of medications such as alendronate. Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic effect of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) on alendronate-induced esophagitis. Methods: In this study, thirty-two male albino rats were separated into four groups: (A) normal control; (B) alendronate (20 mg/kg/day) for 4 days; (C) alendronate plus MSM (400 mg/kg/day) for 4 days after alendronate administration; (D) alendronate plus MSM 800 mg/kg/day for 4 days after alendronate administration. All the rats were sacrificed, and their esophagus were dissected for macroscopic and histological examination.  Results: The results of this study demonstrated that administration of alendronate caused esophageal injury characterized by macroscopic and microscopic changes. Administration of MSM at a dose of (400 mg/kg/day) didn't cause significant decrease in macroscopic and histologic lesions of esophagus. However, the dose (800 mg/kg/day) of MSM caused significant decrease in macroscopic and histologic lesions of esophagus.  Conclusion: MSM can protect against esophageal ulceration induced by alendronate in rats when it is administered at a dose of 800 mg/kg/day.