Abstract: Aim To study the protective effects of tetrandrine (Tet)on azathioprine (Aza)hepato toxicity in rats.Method 27 rats were separated into 3 groups, and Aza 25 mg/kg·d, Aza 25 mg/kg·d+Tet 30mg/kg·d and normal saline were separately given to the rats in each of the 3 groups.The parameters of liver function, malondialdehyde (MDA)and surperox ide dismutase (SOD)in plasma, and glutatione (GSH)in the whole blood were detected in all.The patho logical changes of rats liver were observed by light microscope.Result In the Aza group, the levels of ALT, AKP and MDA were increased and those of total protein, albumine, SOD and GSH were decreased significantly at 1 wk and 2 wk.In the Tet group, the levels of ALT, MDA and AKP were increased and those of SOD and GSH were not decteased significantly.The hepatocy tes degene ration and necrosis in Aza group were found under light microscope.The damages in Tet group were very little.Conclusion Tet had protective effects on Aza hepatotoxicity in rats.

Key words: tetrandrine, azathio prine, hepatotoxicity, protective effect