HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES IN RATS ADMINISTERED ISOMETHAMIDIUM CHLORIDE DIMINAZENE ACETURATE AND THEIR COMBINATIONS

African animal trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma congolense is a major constraint on livestock productivity in sub-Saharan Africa. The disease is associated with anemia, immunosuppression, and organ dysfunction. Isomethamidium chloride (ISO) and Diminazene aceturate (DA) are widely used trypanocides, but their limitations in efficacy and toxicity necessitate evaluation of combination therapy. Rats experimentally infected with T. congolense were treated with ISO, DA, and their combinations in varying proportions. Hematological parameters (Packed Cell Volume, Hemoglobin, Red and White Blood Cells, Lymphocytes, Neutrophils, Eosinophils, Monocytes, Platelets), biochemical markers (AST, ALT, ALP, BUN, creatinine, protein, albumin), and immune cell profiles were monitored pre-treatment, during infection, and post-treatment. Infection induced significant reductions in PCV, Hb, RBC, lymphocytes, platelets, and albumin, alongside leukocytosis, neutrophilia, and elevations in liver and kidney function markers. ISO or DA monotherapy partially reversed these alterations, but each showed drawbacks ISO produced limited hematological recovery while DA caused marked monocyte activation. Combination therapy, particularly the 50:50 ratio, restored PCV, Hb, and RBC more effectively, normalized WBC counts, improved platelet recovery, balanced lymphocyte–neutrophil distribution, and reduced elevations in AST, ALT, and BUN compared with monotherapies. ISO and DA exhibit synergistic effects when used in combination, with the 50:50 ratio providing the best therapeutic outcome. The combined therapy offered superior hematological recovery, immune balance, and reduced organ