Silybon 70 mg contains Silymarin as the main active ingredient. Silymarin is an extract of mill thistle seeds from Silybum plant. Silymarin is composed of a wide mixture of flavonolignans. Thus, this drug is a flavonoid and blocks the activity of glycoprotein-derived cellular efflux. This drug has also been known to inhibit the working mechanism of the enzyme cytochrome P450.

Silybon is effectively prescribed for treating severe liver disorders like hepatitis A. It balances the liver cells' normal functioning by maintaining the metabolism and physiology of hepatocytes. Silymarin enhances the activity of kupffer cells, which act as macrophages in the hepatocytes and induce protection and regeneration. Since this drug is a plant extract, it acts as an antioxidant via the glutathione pathway and the action of the enzyme superoxide dismutase. This drug helps in protein synthesis by ribosomes and exerts a membrane-stabilising effect.

Doctors prescribe this drug to treat severe liver disorders like hepatitis A and other cases of liver damage caused due to poisoning, alcohol consumption, diabetes, and the use of several drugs and toxins. It completely cures liver cell ailment, which develops as liver cirrhosis. This drug reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins in the body as it is reported to be tolerated in patients with prostate cancer when given in the proper range daily.

The recommended dose of this drug varies from patient to patient; it is adjusted per the patient's response towards the drug under the supervision of your doctor. Report to your doctor after a regular interval of 3 to 4 weeks.

Silymarin is available as a tablet, making it easier to consume orally with sufficient water. Completely swallow this medicine with water. Do not chew it.

The following drugs/cases have been reported to contraindicate the medicine Silymarin:

  — Share your medical history with the doctor; Silymarin has been reported to cause severe allergic reactions in some cases.

  — In case a patient has to undergo surgery, inform your doctor beforehand. Anaesthesia can cause hypotension and interfere with the working of this drug.

  — Avoid consuming Silymarin before taking any laboratory tests. Silymarin contains a constituent that can decrease serum plasma levels.

  — Inform your doctor about your existing medical condition and the medicine you are taking, especially for renal disorders, diabetes or a history of liver encephalopathy, to avoid any side effects, as Silymarincan can affect the kidneys, liver and heart.

Drug contradictions:

  — Hypersensitive reactions

  — Unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases in the liver

  — Pregnant and lactating women

Drug interactions:

Following drugs are known to interact with the working of Silymarin:

  — Sirolimus

  — Tamoxifen

  — Estrogens

The following side effects have been reported in the case of Silymarin:

• Constipation 
• Severe rash, itching 
• Tightening of chest 
• Nausea 
• Dark urine
• Memory loss
• Tingling 
• Unusual tiredness 
• Yellowing of skin