In vitro studies were carried out to ascertain the effect of Papaverine, a calcium channel inhibitor, on electrolyte profile in sickle cell anaemia. Blood samples of genotype AA and AS obtained from volunteers were used as control. Hematological and plasma Ca2+ status of the samples were ascertained after a preliminary analysis. Results of electrolyte profile revealed that Papaverine significantly (p<0.05) restored salinity, conductivity and total dissolved solute in both the test group and controls.

The plant Securidaca longepedunculata (SLP) is indigenous to Africa and its bark, roots and seeds have been used in treating a wide spectrum of diseases.The present study explored the tissue/organ toxicity of the root extract after a single and repeated dose exposure of rodents. Doses of 20, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg were administered intraperitoneally (i.p), while 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 mg/kg were given by oral intubation. General behavioural effects and mortality were determined for the initial 24 h, and thereafter for 14 days. In the 90-day toxicity study, 150, 350 and 700 mg/kg extract were given intragastrically to rats and the possible reversibility of the toxic effects due to the highest dose only was explored.Selected biochemical and haematological parameters were determined after 90 days, when the animals were humanely sacrificed and blood samples collected.A significant decrease in body weight was recorded in the SLP treated rats and both liver and kidney toxicities were observed. Median lethal doses via intraperitoneal and oral routes were 44.67 and 3162 mg/kg.SLP extract contained saponins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides and flavonoids.