Milk Thistle Interactions Overview

Check For Interactions With Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle

Also known as
  • Silybum marianum
  • Artichaut Sauvage
  • Blessed Milk Thistle
  • Cardo Lechoso
  • Cardui Mariae Fructus
  • Cardui Mariae Herba
  • Carduus Marianum
  • Chardon Argenté
  • Chardon de Marie
  • Chardon de Notre-Dame
  • Chardon Marbré
  • Chardon-Marie
  • Épine Blanche
  • Holy Thistle
  • Khar Maryam
Milk Thistle Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a plant belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The plant is known for its milk-white veins on the leaves, which gives it its name. Milk thistle has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and is extremely popular as a dietary supplement, making it one of the most well-known plants in the world. It is purported to have liver-protectant effects and has been used to treat liver disorders such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. It has also been used to treat gallbladder problems and high cholesterol. While there are a number of compounds in milk thistle, one of the active constituents, silymarin, is thought to be responsible for many of its effects, and dietary supplements often report using a standardized amount (generally 70% to 80% silymarin in extracts).
There are 927 drugs known to interact with Milk Thistle

Additional Details

Is Milk Thistle Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Milk thistle is generally safe for oral use when taken in appropriate doses. Specific milk thistle extracts that contain 70% to 80% silymarin have been used safely for up to 4 years. Higher doses have also been used safely for shorter periods. Some isolated milk thistle constituents and combination products are also considered safe. However, there is insufficient information available about the safety of intravenous formulations of milk thistle or its constituents.

How Is Milk Thistle Thought To Work?

Milk thistle contains various active compounds, with silybin or silibinin considered the most active component. These compounds are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect liver cells from damage and promote liver health. Milk thistle may also have other potential health benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, milk thistle is absorbed by the body, but its bioavailability is still a topic of debate. The active compounds undergo metabolism and are excreted primarily through the bile. The pharmacokinetics of milk thistle can be affected by liver disease, leading to altered levels in the body.

Interaction Overview (See Below For Full List)

Milk thistle may interact with certain drugs and supplements. These interactions can vary in severity and occurrence. Some potential interactions include increased risk of hypoglycemia when combined with antidiabetes drugs and potential interference with the metabolism of certain medications. It is important to exercise caution when using milk thistle alongside other medications or supplements and consult with a healthcare professional.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Milk thistle supplements are generally well-tolerated. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as digestive disturbances or allergic reactions. If you notice any concerning symptoms, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Are Milk Thistle Supplements Standardized?

Yes, milk thistle extracts are typically standardized to contain a certain percentage of silymarin, which is the active component of milk thistle. Standardization ensures consistent potency and quality of the supplement.

Drugs that interact with Milk Thistle

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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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