Silymarin [Dried extract of milk thistle fruits]
Indications
Silymarin (Milk thistle) is indicated for the treatment and prevention of-
- Liver disease, (non-alcoholic & alcoholic)
- Liver cirrhosis, (non-alcoholic & alcoholic)
- Infectious hepatitis
- Drug-induced hepatitis
- Liver disease secondary to diabetes mellitus
- Toxicity of narcotics
- Fatty liver
- Jaundice
Composition
Each capsule contains a standardized extract of-
- Milk thistle 175 mg equivalent to Silymarin 140 mg
- Milk thistle 87.50 mg equivalent to Silymarin 70 mg
Pharmacology
Silymarin is well known hepatoprotective agent. It is prepared with standardized extract of Milk Thistle fruits. Silymarin stimulates RNA polymerase-A, enhances protein synthesis and helps to regenerate and repair liver cell.
The liver-protecting and liver-repairing functions of Silymarin are due to two main actions: antioxidant and protein-restoring activities. The antioxidant activity of silymarin is ten times more powerful than vitamin E. It prevents toxic and foreign substances from penetrating into the liver cells by stabilizing the outer membrane of liver cells.
Silymarin has also membrane stabilizing effect. It alters the liver membrane cell structure in such a way that certain toxins cannot enter into the cell. Silymarin protects liver cells (hepatocytes) from damage caused by alcohol, organic compounds, viral infections, acetaminophen, environmental pollutants and by products of metabolism including foods, drugs, chemotherapeutic agents and other chemicals.
It also acts by anti-lipid peroxidative, antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, membrane stabilizing, immunomodulatory and liver regenerating mechanisms.
The liver-protecting and liver-repairing functions of Silymarin are due to two main actions: antioxidant and protein-restoring activities. The antioxidant activity of silymarin is ten times more powerful than vitamin E. It prevents toxic and foreign substances from penetrating into the liver cells by stabilizing the outer membrane of liver cells.
Silymarin has also membrane stabilizing effect. It alters the liver membrane cell structure in such a way that certain toxins cannot enter into the cell. Silymarin protects liver cells (hepatocytes) from damage caused by alcohol, organic compounds, viral infections, acetaminophen, environmental pollutants and by products of metabolism including foods, drugs, chemotherapeutic agents and other chemicals.
It also acts by anti-lipid peroxidative, antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, membrane stabilizing, immunomodulatory and liver regenerating mechanisms.
Dosage & Administration
Adults: 1 to 3 capsule(s) should be taken into 2 to 3 times daily or medication should be continued until the relief of symptoms according to the advice of physician.
Children: It should not be given to children without advice of physician.
Children: It should not be given to children without advice of physician.
Interaction
Concomitant use of silymarin and butyrophenones or phenothiazines has resulted in the reduction of lipid peroxidation.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patient with a known hypersensitivity to silymarin.
Side Effects
Well tolerated in the recommended dose. Occasionally a mild laxative effect may observe.
Pregnancy & Lactation
No experience is available about the use of Silymarin 70 mg or 140 mg during pregnancy and lactation. Therefore, if needed Silymarin 70 mg or 140 mg should be taken with caution according to the physician’s advice.
Therapeutic Class
Cholagogues, Cholelitholytics & Hepatic Protectors, Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool & dry place, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
