Silymarin belongs to a class of medicines known as hepatoprotective medicines which means that they protect the liver. It is used to treat chronic (long-standing) liver diseases. It is also used to treat severe cases of liver disease known as cirrhosis of the liver. Silymarin accelerates alcohol clearance from the blood and therefore also helps in the treatment of fatty liver due to alcoholism.

Silymarin is obtained from milk thistle seed (Silybum marianum). Silymarin works by increasing the process of alcohol elimination from blood and tissues. This provides faster recovery from alcohol intoxication and as a result protects the liver from damage against harmful chemicals known as free radicals. Thereby, it helps to improve overall health of the liver.

Silymarin should be taken with food. Take it in the dose and duration advised by the doctor. The dose will depend on the condition you are being treated for and your total body weight. It is advised to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get the maximum benefit of Silymarin.

The most common side effects are nausea, upset stomach, loss of appetite, stomach or back pain, hair loss, dizziness, itching and diarrhea. However, these effects are not observed in every patient. If you are worried about them or they do not go away, inform your doctor. If you have problems with diarrhea your doctor may reduce the dose or stop the treatment. Drink enough water or fluids to stay hydrated in case of severe diarrhea.

Silymarin may not be safe to be used in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Please consult your doctor before taking Silymarin if you are planning to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding to prevent harmful effects on the baby.