Silymarin

Description

Silymarin is used as a supportive treatment for liver damage. It is derived fro

m milk thistle seeds. It works as an antioxidant by binding it to the free radicals and enhances the synthesis of phospholipids and proteins that helps to protect the liver. Silymarin is available in the form of tablets, capsules, syrup and suspension. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding and about all the medicines and supplements you take and all the conditions or diseases you suffer from, before starting this medicine.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Silymarin is used as a supportive treatment in chronic liver disease and cirrhosis.

Contraindications

When should one not use Silymarin

If you are allergic to silymarin
In patients less than 12 years of age.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Headache
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Stomach discomfort
Skin rashes

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Silymarin during pregnancy?

Silymarin is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless your doctor considers it essential after assessing the benefits over risks.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Silymarin while breastfeeding?

Consult a doctor before taking Silymarin while breastfeeding as limited safety data is available.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Silymarin?

Silymarin may make you feel dizzy, thus you need to be cautious while driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Silymarin?

Avoid consuming alcohol with Silymarin, as it may worsen the side effects.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have problems with your liver
You are suffering from a hormonal disorder
Silymarin should not be used in patients below 12 years of age.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Silymarin prevents toxins from attaching to liver cells. It works as an antioxidant by lowering and avoiding the free radicals formation, unstable molecules in the body which can cause harm to the hea...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Some medicines can affect the way silymarin works or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
Especially if you are taking medicines to treat your psychiatric illnesses, cancer, fungal infections, hormonal pills such as estrogen, progesterone or lipid-lowering medicines.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: In which all dosage forms is Silymarin available?

A: Silymarin is available in the form of tabletS, capsuleS, syrup and suspension.

Q: Can Silymarin be used in children?

A: Silymarin is not recommended for use in children less than 12 years of age as no relevant data is available.

References

Last Updated on: 24 Nov 2021 | 10:17 AM (IST)

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