Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Thymoquinone, the main bioactive compound of Nigella sativa (black seed), has been investigated for its potential to mitigate the side effects associated with antibiotic use, particularly antibiotic-induced organ toxicity (such as nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity) and oxidative stress. Preclinical studies—primarily in vitro and animal models—suggest that thymoquinone possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect tissues from the oxidative damage often caused by antibiotics like gentamicin and cisplatin. For instance, several rodent studies have demonstrated that thymoquinone can reduce biochemical markers of liver and kidney damage when co-administered with nephrotoxic antibiotics. There is also evidence that it might restore antioxidant enzyme levels depleted by such drugs.

However, while these findings are promising, robust clinical evidence in humans is currently lacking. Most of the data come from animal studies, and there are very few (if any) well-controlled human trials specifically examining the use of thymoquinone to mitigate antibiotic side effects. As such, while there is a scientific rationale for its use, the evidence supporting its efficacy in this context is limited, and it should be considered preliminary. Further research, especially human clinical trials, is needed to confirm the benefits and safety of thymoquinone as an adjunct therapy to reduce antibiotic side effects.

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