Evaluation of genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of anorectic drugs in lymphocytes of obese people

Abstract

Obesity is a major public health concern nowadays, as the risk of developing cancer and other chronic diseases has increased considerably in this population. Using in vitro tests (Comet Assay and Micronucleus Test), we evaluated whether lymphocytes from obese individuals (BMI: 40-62 kg / m2) are sensitive to genotoxic and cytotoxic damage when exposed to anorexigenics sibutramine, femproporex and phytotherapics Cordia ecalyculata and Echinodorus grandiflorus. We found that both possessed weak genotoxic activity and did not detect cytotoxic activity or interference in the cell division mechanisms of lymphocytes among obese individuals.

Keywords

• obesity
• treatment
• anorectic drugs
• lynphocytes