Journal of Advanced Clinical Neurology Research

Abstract

Methamphetamine (commonly referred to as meth, crystal, ice, or crank) is a powerful, highly addictive synthetic central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It belongs to the amphetamine class of drugs but is more potent, faster-acting, and more neurotoxic than amphetamine. This study investigated the protective role and therapeutic effects of vitamin B complex against methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity in adult male Wistar rats. A total forty- two rats (weighing 130g-175g) were used for the study. Fourteen rats were used for acute toxicity test while twenty-eight rats were randomly assigned into seven groups (A–G, n = 4). Group A served as the control, Groups B and C received methamphetamine at 2 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg respectively, while Groups D and E were administered vitamin B complex at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg respectively. Groups F and G received combined treatments, with Group F administered 2 mg/kg of methamphetamine plus 50 mg/kg of vitamin B complex, and Group G receiving 10 mg/kg of methamphetamine plus 100 mg/kg of vitamin B complex (high dose). Sub-chronic oral administration was carried out, and parameters assessed included body weight and neurobehavioural test for memory and cognitive activity. Oxidative stress markers (GSH, SOD, and MDA) evaluated redox balance while Nissl substance were analyzed to assess cerebral cortex neural integrity. Rats treated with methamphetamine alone (Groups B and C) exhibited significant weight loss (p < 0.01), increased relative organ weights, and marked histopathological alterations characterized by reduced normal pyramidal cell counts and increased inflammatory cell infiltration, indicating severe neuronal degeneration. Conversely, rats treated with vitamin B complex, either alone or in combination (Groups D–G), demonstrated significant weight gain comparable to the control, and preservation of cerebral histoarchitecture. These groups showed increased numbers of normal pyramidal cells with reduced inflammatory changes compared to methamphetamine-only groups, suggesting enhanced neuroprotection. In conclusion, vitamin B complex mitigated methamphetamine-induced neuronal degeneration, improved body weight, and preserved cortical integrity. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic role of vitamin B complex in reducing stimulant-induced brain injury and support its possible application as a neuroprotective agent.