Generic
Silymarin [Milk thistle]
26 brands available in the market
At a glance
Silymarin [Milk thistle] is a flavonoid used for the treatment of jaundice, chronic inflammatory liver disease, hepatic cirrhosis, and alcoholic liver damage. It exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties.
Description
Silymarin is a flavonoid complex derived from Silybum marianum (milk thistle). It exhibits hepatoprotective and regenerative properties. Silymarin increases liver cell regeneration by enhancing DNA and RNA synthesis, alters hepatocyte external membrane structure to prevent xenobiotic entry, scavenges free radicals, and increases cellular glutathione content to inhibit lipid peroxidation.
Indications
- Jaundice
- Chronic inflammatory liver conditions
- Hepatic cirrhosis
- Alcoholic liver damage
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Hepatoprotective
Pharmacology
Silymarin increases liver cell regeneration by enhancing DNA and RNA synthesis, stabilizes the hepatocyte external membrane to prevent toxin entry, scavenges free radicals, increases glutathione content to inhibit lipid peroxidation, and modifies ABC transporters, OATP, bile salt export pump, and TNF-α-dependent transporters.
Mechanism of action
Increases liver cell regeneration, prevents toxin entry, and acts as an antioxidant.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- 1-3 capsules 2-3 times daily
- Continue until symptom relief
Administration
- Take with or without food
- Take with plenty of water
- Do not chew, crush, or break
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not take two doses at the same time.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Mild digestive upset
- Allergic reactions
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use if hypersensitive to any ingredient
- Caution in pregnancy and lactation
- Caution in kidney and liver disease
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to silymarin
Drug interactions
- Concomitant use with butyrophenones or phenothiazines may reduce lipid peroxidation
Food interactions
Alcohol is unsafe with Silymarin (increases liver burden).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Long-term safety studies are lacking; not recommended during pregnancy; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No experience available; long-term safety studies lacking; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Use in children under 12 years requires medical supervision
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution needed; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution needed; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No overdose information available; consult your doctor if overused.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Silymarin