The effect of curcumin on biochemical and hematological indices of red blood cells during and after taking ecstasy in male Wistar rats

Background: The using of ecstasy pills or 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) has severe damage to various systems of the body, including blood cells. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of curcumin (turmeric extract) on red blood cells and its hematological and biochemical indices with and after taking ecstasy. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 40 adult male rats were divided into five groups: group1; control without MDMA and Curcumin, group 2; received MDMA, group 3; received MDMA and curcumin, group 4; received MDMA for 15 days, then 15 days later, no drug injection and group 5; received MDMA for 15 days, then injection of curcumin for 15 days later. The blood samples were collected and then, blood smears were prepared to assess morphology of red bleed cells mean values morphology of red blood cells. Results: The mean of red blood cell levels were significantly lower in MDMA recipient groups than in the control group. By using curcumin during and after taking ecstasy the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin were significantly decreased compared with that in the control group. Also, red blood cells were significantly decreased in the curcumin recipient groups compared with the MDMA groups. The total bilirubin levels in 2 and 4 groups which received MDMA alone, as well as in 3 and 5 groups received MDMA with curcumin were significantly higher than those in the control group. Conclusion: The effect of curcumin during and after taking ecstasy is likely due to a high digestive absorption of MDMA by curcumin or non-metabolizing of MDMA when using curcumin.