Influence of Corchorus Olitorius (Molokhia) Soup on the In Vivo Absorption of Ciprofloxacin from Immediate Release Tablet in Rabbits

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Corchorus Olitorius (Molokhia) soup on
the oral absorption of ciprofloxacin from solid dosage forms in rabbits. A single dose of
ciprofloxacin tablet (125 mg) was administered to rabbits in a fasted state or with Molokhia soup.
Plasma ciprofloxacin concentrations were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography.
The results demonstrated a profound effect of Molokhia soup on the bioavailability of
ciprofloxacin compared to the fasted state. The intake of Molokhia soup reduced the rate and extent
of ciprofloxacin oral bioavailability. The geometric mean (Cmax and AUC) values of ciprofloxacin
were significantly lower under fed compared to the fasted states. Administration of ciprofloxacin
with Molokhia soup was associated with a delay in the time to reach peak concentration (Tmax) by
about half hour. Therefore, co-administration of Molokhia soup with ciprofloxacin may have a
potential negative effect on the release and oral absorption of Ciprofloxacin from tablets, This may
result in serious decrease in the efficacy of this antibiotic and potential bacterial resistance.