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Abstract Data concerning the protective effects of Green tea extract (GTE) and its utilization as a therapeutic intervention for paracetamol (APAP) overdose are conflicting and intriguing. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the effects of therapeutic dose of GTE on the liver and kidney, evaluate the potential protective activities of GTE against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, asses the regenerative capacity of the liver and kidney after discontinuation of treatments, and explore the mechanisms underlying these effects. Fifty-four adult male albino rats were divided into six groups (n = 9 each): (1) control, (2) APAP (2 g/kg, orally for one week), (3) GTE (8.5 mg/kg, orally for one month), (4) APAP/GTE (APAP followed by GTE), (5) APAP recovery (for one month) and (6) APAP/GTE recovery (for one month). Administration of APAP or GTE resulted in marked biochemical and histopathological alterations indicating hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, manifested as augmented concentrations of liver enzymes, cellular necrosis and degeneration, congestion, hemorrhage, inflammation, and fibrosis. Consistent with these alterations, apoptosis and oxidative stress were greatly increased, whereas antioxidant activities were markedly decreased. These changes were more pronounced in APAP/GTE group, and were not recovered upon cessation of treatments. These results highlight that administration of therapeutic doses of GTE induces hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, and imply that in a situation of clinical paracetamol overdose, administration of GTE is likely to potentiate APAP-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. |