The present study investigated the protective effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is widely known as an antidote to acetaminophen overdose, on carbosulfan (CB)-induced hematotoxicity and oxidative stress in male rats. CB was administered at a dose of 25 mg/kg or simultaneously administered with NAC (2 g/l) for 30 days. Results of hematological examination showed that red blood cells, hematocrite, hemoglobin, and reticulocytes levels were significantly lower in CB-exposed rats compared with those in the control. Administration of CB caused a significant increase in the superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. However, the glutathione (GSH) and thiols group (TSH) levels were significantly increased as well as GSH S-transferase activity and levels of glutathione peroxidase on erythrocytes of males rats compared with those in the control. Also, CB-treated rats showed significant elevation in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) on erythrocytes in comparison with the control. Co-administration with NAC exhibited chemoprotective effects against CB-mediated hematotoxicity, augmented erythrocyte antioxidant status, and prevented the induction of anemia.
