Comparative Evaluation of Renal Tissue Changes Associated with Anti-Obesity Therapies: Hoodia Gordonii Extract, Liraglutide (Saxenda), and Their Combination

Abstract

Objective: To assess the histopathological effects of Hoodia gordonii extract and Saxenda as well as the effect of the combination on renal tissue under experimental conditions that simulated the effect of metabolic stress associated with obesity.

Study Design: Experimental study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the University of Kufa, Iraq from 11th September 2024 to 28th February 2025.

Methods: This study was conducted to examine the effects Hoodia gordonii extract (150 mg/kg/day), Saxenda (0.1 mL/day, subcutaneous) and a combination of both on renal effects were investigated using experimental models over 30 and 45 days. Kidney specimens were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin and then sectioned and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and observed under the microscope to determine glomerular and tubular changes.

Results: Samples exposed to Hoodia gordonii exhibited intact renal architecture that was not affected by glomerular or tubular injury. Saxenda exposure on the other hand caused histological alterations which included interstitial inflammation, tubular necrosis and glomerular enlargement. The joint regimen showed better morphology of the kidneys, almost normal histological characteristics and less damage.

Conclusion: Hoodia gordonii seems a safe natural adjunct in obesity control, and it shows a protective effect against the nephrotoxicity of the drug.