Synergistic Effects of Cucumis Sativus and Glimepiride on Blood Glucose Reduction: Implications for Diabetes Management

Ikechukwu Sonne Mbagwu; Daniel Lotanna Ajaghaku; Paul Chinwuba; King-david Ikenna Ahuchaogu; Uchechukwu Harrison Orji; Amara Anwuchaepe Ajaghaku

doi:10.5455/JELM.20250530115515

Abstract
Background: This study investigated the interactive effects of Cucumis sativus (cucumber) extract and glimepiride on blood glucose reduction in an alloxan-induced diabetic mouse model.
Method: Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses of the Cucumis sativus extract were performed. Acute toxicity studies were conducted using the Lorke's method. The antidiabetic median effective doses (ED50) of Cucumis sativus extract and glimepiride were determined. Various combinations of the extract and glimepiride were evaluated for their effects on blood glucose levels.
Results: The Cucumis sativus extract yielded 9.2% yield and contained flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, steroids, and terpenoids, with terpenoids being the most abundant (26.27 mg/g). Both Cucumis sativus extract and glimepiride exhibited dose-dependent reductions in blood glucose levels, with ED50 values of 518 mg/kg and 0.20 mg/kg, respectively. The combination of glimepiride and Cucumis sativus extract at half their ED50 doses (0.10:259 mg/kg) resulted in an additive effect (CI=1), whereas the combination at doses of 0.05:388.5 mg/kg showed synergism (CI<1).
Conclusion: The observed synergistic effect suggests that the phytochemicals in Cucumis sativus may interact with multiple biological pathways to enhance glucose metabolism, although further studies are needed to elucidate these mechanisms, such as glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT-4) translocation and suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis. These findings highlight the potential public health benefits of incorporating phytochemical-rich fruits such as Cucumis sativus into the diets of patients with diabetes to enhance treatment outcomes and reduce medication costs.

Key words: Drug-food interaction, Diabetes, Cucumis sativus, Glimepiride, Antidiabetic efficacy, Blood glucose reduction, Combination therapy