Silymarin Milk Thistle Drug Interactions

Interactions with drugs, supplements and other herbs have not been thoroughly studied. The interactions listed below have been reported in scientific publications. If you are taking prescription drugs, speak with your health care provider or pharmacist before using herbs or dietary supplements.

One report has noted that silybinin (a constituent of silymarin) can inhibit a bacterial enzyme called beta-glucuronidase, which plays a role in the activity of certain drugs, such as oral contraceptives.31 This could reduce their effectiveness.

DRUG INTERACTIONS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
If you are taking:

a. Oral contraceptives:
Milk thistle may reduce their effectiveness.
b. Medications that could damage the liver:
Milk thistle might be protective.


Interactions With Herbs And Dietary Supplements

Milk thistle may lower blood sugar levels. People using other herbs or supplements that may affect blood sugar levels, such as bitter melon (Momordica charantia), should be monitored closely by their health care provider while using milk thistle. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Silymarin and vitamin E have been shown to prevent amiodarone toxicity in studies done in animals, but before this herb is used for this indication, further studies in humans must be done.

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