Assessment of Liver and Renal Functions of Asymptomatic Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV) Seropositive Individuals on Winniecure (Herbal) Therapy

This study was carried out to assess the probable effects of the herbal extract (Winniecure), used in our institute for the treatment of Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV) infection, on liver and renal functions of individuals undergoing therapy. A total of 100 asymptomatic Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV) seropositive volunteers were randomized into two groups - study group Y; and the control group X. The control subjects were placed on a placebo. Their blood samples were collected before and after therapy and assessed for liver and renal functions using specific laboratory tests as indicators. Post-treatment results of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, β-glutamyl transferase, bilirubin, albumin, and globulin were found to be within the reference range and did not vary significantly (p > 0.05) from pretreatment values. Serum electrolytes, creatinine, urea and uric acid were also within the reference range and did not change significantly (p > 0.05) after therapy. A similar outcome was also observed for liver and renal functions of HIV - positive individuals on placebo. The findings suggest that no abnormal effects may occur in the liver and renal functions of HIV-positive individuals on Winniecure herbal therapy. Key words: antiretroviral therapy, Winniecure herbal extract, liver functions Journal of Medical Laboratory Science Vol.12(2) 2003: 36 - 41