What are hepatoprotective drugs?

General information

Medicines that have a positive effect on the functioning of the liver and promote its recovery are hepatoprotectors.
The drugs, the list of which will be given below, perfectly protect the organ from:

• aggressive medications;
• exposure to poisons;
• alcohol.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=

Using them allows you to improve your metabolism. They ensure the functioning of liver cells. Thus, the main function of drugs is to protect the organ from the negative effects of various damaging factors.

Modern pharmacologists have developed a wide variety of hepatoprotectors. The list of drugs is divided according to the principle of action and composition. However, all of these medications benefit the liver. But they should be taken only after consultation with a specialist.

In addition, it is important to understand: hepatoprotectors are not able to completely protect the organ from the harm caused by alcohol. The only method to prevent the damaging effect is to protect the body from alcohol-containing drinks.

Hepatoprotectors (drugs) are prescribed not only for treatment, but also for preventive purposes.

The list of medications included in this group has fairly broad indications for use:

1. It is advisable to use them for people who constantly interact with chemical, radioactive, and toxic components.
2. Such drugs are useful for older people, since their liver often requires drug support.
3. In addition, these funds are beneficial in the fight against diseases of the digestive tract and biliary tract.

But the most important thing is to remember that hepatoprotectors can only be used after a doctor’s prescription.

Legalon: instructions for use, reviews and analogues, how much does it cost?

Currently, there is an increase in the number of patients with liver diseases.
In most cases, the development of the disease is provoked by the consumption of alcoholic beverages and poor diet. According to experts, the modern pharmacological industry offers a large number of drugs to restore and maintain the liver. Such medicines include Legalon, a modern hepatoprotector proposed by German manufacturers of medicines.

• Legalon: composition and release form
• Indications for use
• Contraindications
• Legalon: instructions for use
• Legalon: side effects
• Legalon's analogues
• Price of the medicine and where to buy
• Legalon: reviews

The drug contains milk thistle extract as an active ingredient, which contains a large amount of silymarin.

The drug contains silymarin in the form of a mixture of flavonoid isomeric compounds: silibinin, silicristin and silydianin.

Silymarin is a natural hepatoprotector that promotes accelerated regeneration of liver cells and protects them from the effects of nicotine and ethyl alcohol.

Silymarin reduces the amount of bilirubin in the blood, activates the outflow of bile, and stimulates the formation of lipids and protein compounds. The active substance inhibits the formation of prostaglandins in the body, which are involved in inflammatory processes.

Silymarin is actively involved in the oxidation of cholesterol plaques.

The drug also contains excipients: mannitol, povidone, polysorbate, magnesium stearate, sodium carboxymethyl starch.

The capsule shell consists of gelatin additives, titanium dioxide and iron oxide.

Recently, the drug Legalon SIL for intravenous use and Legalon suspension, used for liver damage as a result of poisoning with poisonous mushrooms, were introduced to the market.

The drug is used to eliminate a number of symptoms accompanying liver disease:

• decreased appetite;
• general malaise and weakness;
• urticaria, skin itching;
• heaviness in the hypochondrium.

The use of the drug helps alleviate the condition of patients with cirrhosis of the liver, improve laboratory tests that determine the condition of the liver.

The medicine is used to treat diseases in acute and chronic form. It is used to treat the following pathological conditions:

• damage to liver cells by toxins;
• fibrotic damage to liver cells;
• hepatitis;
• heavy metal poisoning.

Contraindications

According to doctors, the drug has no contraindications. There are restrictions on the use of the product in case of individual intolerance to individual components of the drug.

Side effects can manifest themselves in the form of allergies, diarrhea, and hot flashes, which is very rare.

The duration of treatment and dosage depend on the severity of the patient’s condition and are prescribed by the attending physician on an individual basis.

As a rule, the duration of treatment is 1-3 months with the course of taking the drug repeated throughout the year.

To restore the liver, in consultation with the doctor, additional medications may be prescribed. Independent use of the drug is unacceptable due to the likelihood of the chronic nature of the disease.

Before using the drug, the patient must undergo an examination, based on the results of which the doctor draws up a plan for using the drug.

Legalon suspension is taken one measuring spoon 4 times a day.

In most cases, patients tolerate the drug well. Very rarely, an allergic reaction caused by hypersensitivity to the components of the drug may occur.

Legalon's analogues

Legalon has a number of analogues that have proven themselves to be effective for the treatment of liver diseases.

Among them are plant-based hepatoprotectors: Liv 52, Apkosul; synthetic analogues Zixorin and Antral, Lecithin, Methionine and Hepasteril B, Hepar Compositum and Galstena, Essentiale Forte N, Lipofen and Liolive. The most commonly used are Silimar, Essentiale, and Karsil Forte, and these analogues are much cheaper.

Analogues should be selected by the attending physician depending on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body.

Legalon's analogues

The drug can be purchased at a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription. The average price for a package of Legalon 70 is from 500 rubles.

Legalon: reviews

My husband constantly takes Legalon 140 to maintain liver function. The drug consists entirely of natural ingredients. We can assume that Legalon is harmless, but you need to strictly follow the instructions and not violate the doctor’s orders. Legalon eliminates the feeling of heaviness. There are no side effects observed. Reviews about the drug are only positive.

Elizabeth

While on vacation, we encountered problems with bowel movements and nausea, which were caused by time zone changes, different diets, and flights. The usual Pancreatin and Karsil did not help, so we bought Legalon at the pharmacy, which we liked because of its natural composition. I took it according to the instructions, no side effects were observed. I recommend the drug for use.

After a course of taking the drug, the pain disappeared, the liver stopped bothering me. I use the medicine for prevention. I take it when I feel nausea, heaviness and pain in the side. The drug has a positive effect on the entire gastrointestinal tract. After using it I feel much lighter.

Lyudmila

Damage to the liver by toxic compounds tends to cause a large number of unpleasant symptoms and reduce the normal functioning of the organ. Therefore, experts recommend promptly starting treatment of the disease at the first signs of occurrence.

The drug Legalon contains milk thistle extract, which has beneficial properties in the treatment of the liver and biliary tract. Legalon instructions for use, which contains general recommendations, to achieve more visible results, it is recommended to consult a medical professional.

Release form

A medicinal substance with hepatoprotective action is available in several dosage forms:

1. Legalon 140 capsules are produced in gelatin form and are available in quantities of 20, 30, 60 pieces per package.
2. Legalon 70 capsules have a reduced dosage of the active substance and can be produced in the following form: capsules of 20, 30, 60 pieces per package; dragees 20 pieces per package.

Components of the medicinal substance Legalon:

• milk thistle extract (silymarin);
• povidone;
• polysorbate;
• mannitol;
• magnesium stearate;
• starch;
• iron oxide;
• gelatin;
• titanium dioxide

Capsules are produced in brown color and are round or oblong.

Pharmacodynamics

• The medicinal substance contains natural plant components that have a positive therapeutic effect on the liver and prevent the influence of toxic compounds on the organ.
• The medicinal substance Legalon accelerates cellular metabolic processes, due to which damaged membranes undergo a natural regeneration process.
• The active components of the drug Legalon eliminate inflammatory formations in the bile ducts, thereby increasing the circulation of bile.

Pharmacokinetics

• The therapeutic result from the use of the medicinal substance is achieved 40 minutes after use. In this case, the substance does not accumulate in the body and is partially eliminated several hours after consumption.
• It has the property of being partially absorbed by the walls of the stomach and circulating, providing a repeated therapeutic effect on the liver.

Liver diseases are often caused by external factors - poor environment, exposure to viruses, abuse of medications and alcoholic beverages.

Living cells of dihydroquercetin are a powerful helper for the liver. It is extracted only from the resin and bark of wild larch.

There is only one drug in which the concentration of dihydroquercetin is maximum.

The medicinal plant milk thistle has a large number of beneficial qualities for the body:

• The plant contains a large number of useful vitamins that strengthen the body and activate natural processes to fight diseases;
• active components restore liver cells and increase the functioning of the organ;
• proper use allows you to achieve an analgesic effect;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• removes toxic substances;
• cleanses the bile ducts.

Milk thistle is used for the complex treatment of various diseases and reduces the likelihood of rapid progression of the disease.

Dosage regimen

• The medicinal substance Legalon 140 is taken one capsule two tablets three times a day for a duration of treatment of up to 3-4 weeks. However, in complex cases, the treatment period is determined by the attending physician, and can last up to 3 months.
• The substance in a reduced dosage, Legalon 70, is taken 1-2 capsules, depending on the complexity of the disease, three times a day, the duration of treatment depends on the complexity of the disease.

It is recommended that the medicine is not chewed, swallowed whole, and taken with plenty of liquid. It is necessary to consume Legalon after eating.

There is no exact data on the effect of the substance on a woman’s body during pregnancy. Therefore, experts do not recommend treatment with Legalon.

During breastfeeding, the use of the substance is permissible. However, the child must be transferred to artificial feeding for the period of medical therapy.

Characteristics of Ursosan

Under the influence of Heptral, the concentration of ademetionine increases, which is necessary to accelerate the mobility of organ cells. With regular use, normal bile flow and production are restored. The main component increases the stability of liver cell walls. The drug is available in the form of tablets and solution for intramuscular administration.

The main indications for use are:

• withdrawal or depressive syndromes;
• encephalopathy that developed against the background of liver pathologies;
• cirrhosis or precirrhotic state;
• severe intoxication resulting from the influence of drugs, poisons, medications and alcohol.

If you independently increase the daily norm, side effects may occur, which manifest themselves in the form of discomfort in the stomach, attacks of nausea, diarrhea and a burning sensation in the esophagus.

Available in capsule form. The active element is ursodeoxycholic acid. She is capable of:

• stop the growth of connective tissue in the organ in a pre-cirrhotic state;
• strengthen the immune system against the background of changes in the state of some immune receptors;
• prevent the formation of gallstones and destroy them;
• reduce the rate of absorption of cholesterol into the blood;
• strengthen the stability of the gallbladder ducts.

Ursosan is prescribed for cholelithiasis, hepatitis of various etiologies (including viral, alcoholic and autoimmune).

The drug can be prescribed for cholelithiasis, hepatitis of various etiologies (including viral, alcoholic and autoimmune). It is taken for diseases that lead to blockage of the bile ducts. Ursosan acts as a prophylactic agent for organ damage due to long-term use of antibiotics, cytostatics and paracetamol.

Side effects manifest themselves in the form of dyspeptic disorders (epigastric pain, nausea, diarrhea). Allergic reactions are characterized by skin itching and rashes.

Prevention of hepatotoxic effects of alcohol

The liver can function normally only if the cell membranes are intact. If they are clogged, the organ cannot perform its cleansing function. In this case, hepatoprotectors for the liver are prescribed. The list of effective drugs that can speed up the metabolic process in cells is very wide. However, you should not use them at your own discretion, without a doctor’s prescription.

Hepatoprotectors improve the functioning of the organ's enzyme systems, accelerate the movement of substances, enhance cell protection, improve their nutrition, and participate in cell division. All this ensures liver restoration. In addition, the biochemical indicators of organ functioning are significantly improved.

Basic properties

It should be remembered that there are a wide variety of hepatoprotectors. Drugs, the list of which is classified depending on the mechanism of action and the main substance, perform various functions. Some medications restore damaged cells much faster. Others are better at cleansing the liver.

Despite these differences, all medicines have common properties:

1. Hepatoprotectors are based on natural substances, components of the body’s normal natural environment.
2. Their action is aimed at restoring impaired liver function and normalizing metabolism.
3. The drug neutralizes toxic products that enter the body from the outside or are formed internally as a result of impaired metabolism or disease.
4. Medicines promote cell regeneration and ensure their resistance to harmful effects.

Liver functions

From a medical point of view, the liver in the human body performs the functions of a gland, while being the largest of all existing glands: its weight can reach 2 kilograms, and its size can be 30 centimeters in maximum measurement.
This size is largely due to the importance of this gland in the body. How Simply Recommends Why the medicine doesn’t work The key to successful treatment is, of course, following all the doctor’s recommendations and informing him of all significant changes during therapy. However, a specialist can talk as much as he wants about the regimen and duration of taking the drug, but most patients will still violate these rules. Read more

The fact is that the liver is simultaneously a component of several systems in the human body, including the digestive system, circulatory system, metabolism and others. In total, it performs more than 70 different functions. They can be divided into several main groups.

The first group is a kind of cleansing function, as a result of which the liver neutralizes and removes excesses of various substances, including toxins, allergens, poisons and others. As a result, it is the liver that is the first to take the blow if any harmful substances enter the human body and suffers the most.

Another important function of the liver is participation in the digestion process. With the help of the liver, nutrients entering the body are converted into glucose, as well as the production of enzymes necessary for digesting food and bile involved in this process. In addition, the liver takes temporarily unclaimed glucose obtained from food consumed by a person for storage in order to, if necessary, replenish the urgent energy needs of the body. At the same time, it is the liver that is responsible for the processes of regulating fat metabolism in the body, processing incoming cholesterol and converting it into lipids.

Finally, the third most important group of liver functions is participation in the functioning of the circulatory system. For example, the liver is responsible for the hematopoiesis of the fetus during pregnancy, and also serves as a kind of storage of blood reserves, which will enter the body in case of large blood loss.

Comparison of Heptral and Ursosan

In order to compare two medications, it is necessary to identify the main similarities and differences between the drugs. The cost of Ursosan and Heptral may vary depending on the place of sale.

Similarities

Ursosan and Heptral have the same pharmacotherapeutic effect. Regular use of drugs is accompanied by the following positive effects:

• protecting healthy cells of the body from the harmful effects of external irritants;
• stimulation of immunity;
• reducing bile stagnation in liver tissues;
• elimination of bad cholesterol;
• removal of toxic substances from the body.

The mechanism of action of hepatoprotectors on liver cells has some features:

• pathological development of connective tissue formations is prevented;
• the concentration of toxins in liver cells is reduced;
• the process of restoration of cell membranes is accelerated.

What is the difference

Medicines have different prices.

Which is cheaper?

The variability in prices for Heptral or Ursosan is determined by the forms of release. The cost of Heptral tablets starts from 2400 rubles, the solution – from 1800 rubles. Ursosan can be purchased for 850-1400 rubles. (50 or 100 capsules).

Phospholipid agents

The list of the most popular drugs in this series includes Essentiale Forte and Essliver Forte. Doctors prescribe them to treat fatty liver degeneration. It is believed that essential phospholipids inhibit fibrotic processes well and perform rapid restoration of cell membranes by integrating into the membrane structure of hepatocytes. Reviews from those who have used these drugs are often positive, since the product has a healing effect on the mucous membranes and skin, and improves the general condition of the body.
Although there is debate among doctors about the usefulness of phospholipids in the treatment of liver failure, these drugs maintain a high rating among other groups in this series.

Phosphogliv belongs to the same group of drugs. It is a good hepatoprotector with antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. It is also used in the treatment of eczema and neurodermatitis.

Use of medications

So, hepatoprotectors are medications that have a positive effect on the functioning of the liver. However, they all differ in their mechanism of action. Such agents can provide the following properties to the body: anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, metabolic.

These drugs are widely used for:

• liver diseases (alcoholic and non-alcoholic);
• hepatitis (medicinal, viral, toxic);
• cirrhosis;
• psoriasis;
• cholestatic lesions;
• toxicosis during pregnancy.

Hepatoprotectors of animal origin

These are strong hepatoprotectors, treatment of which is carried out strictly under the supervision of a doctor. Used for severe liver diseases: hepatitis, cirrhosis and fatty degeneration. These include:

• Sirepar.
• Hepatosan.
• Prohepar.

Sirepar

The drug is used in the form of injections: intramuscular or intravenous. Has a detoxifying effect. Hydrolyzed cattle liver extract triggers regeneration processes in the liver parenchyma. Vitamin B12, which is part of the product, restores the process of hematopoiesis due to the maturation of red blood cells. This stops the development of fatty infiltrate and improves the condition of the liver. The drug is effective for hepatitis of various origins.

Hepatosan

The medicine is available in the form of capsules containing pig liver cells. In addition to them, the drug contains amino acids, phospholipids and beneficial microelements, which, in addition to the detoxification effect, also provide a metabolic one. The drug removes toxic substances and improves metabolism.

Progepar

A combined product based on cattle liver cells helps restore and preserve liver hepatocytes, and stabilizes cell membranes. Available in the form of film-coated pills.

Disadvantages of drugs of animal origin

What is common to hepatoprotectors of animal origin is the possibility of their use only during the inactive phase of the disease. In acute hepatitis, there is a risk of increased inflammatory symptoms. And dried animal cells can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, the doctor must check the patient’s individual sensitivity before prescribing drugs. Only certified medications of this series can be used.

Which is better: Heptral or Ursosan?

If bile stagnation occurs, it is better for pregnant women to take Ursosan. This treatment regimen is recommended by members of the European and American Society of Hepatology. Ursosan slows down the rate of progression of biliary (primary) cirrhosis. The medication destroys gallstones and reduces the likelihood of their formation by 33%.

It has been scientifically proven that Heptral increases the quality of life of people and their survival rate with stage 1-2 liver cirrhosis. For more severe forms, Heptral is ineffective.

Heptral increases the quality of life of people and their survival rate with stage 1-2 liver cirrhosis.

Fatty hepatosis

For fatty hepatosis, Heptral is considered more effective. The drug has a targeted effect on the affected areas of the liver and eliminates the characteristic factors that provoked the pathology. The active ingredients restore metabolic processes and improve tissue regeneration. They help eliminate toxins and improve the patient’s well-being in case of severe intoxication.

To enhance the therapeutic effect of Heptral for fatty hepatosis, it is necessary to adjust the patient’s diet. He is prescribed a strict diet; fatty, salty, spicy and fried foods must be completely excluded from the diet.

Ursosan can be used as a drug for monotherapy. Heptral is often prescribed in complex treatment. The drugs can be used simultaneously; they combine well and complement each other’s action, enhancing the therapeutic effect.

Medicines have different active ingredients, so you need to take into account the contraindications and side effects of each. Self-medication can be dangerous. Before using the product, you need to consult a doctor and undergo an examination to choose the best drug.

Indications for use

Hepatoprotective agents are prescribed if the patient has the following pathologies:

• liver failure;
• tissue fibrosis;
• protein-energy deficiency;
• violations of functional properties;
• alcohol dependence and intoxication;
• consequences after taking medications containing toxins;
• intoxication caused by the action of pathogenic microorganisms, depression;
• consequences of viral hepatitis;
• gastritis;
• hepatosis and cirrhosis;
• diseases of the gallbladder, detection of sand or stones in it.

This is interesting: List of the best hepatoprotectors for the liver: drug rating

Liver medications will be effective if taken in combination. Such treatment includes additional measures: general therapy, diet and health-improving exercises. As additional components, these drugs enhance the effect of antiviral drugs.

Classification of drugs

Unfortunately, to this day there is no unified system that allows dividing hepatoprotectors (drugs) into groups.

The classification, which has found application in medicine, is as follows:

1. Essential phospholipids. Medicines included in this group are obtained from soybeans. These are excellent hepatoprotectors of plant origin. List of medications belonging to this group: “Essentiale Forte”, “Phosphogliv”, “Rezalut Pro”, “Essliver Forte”. Plant phospholipids resemble those found in human liver cells. That is why they naturally integrate into disease-affected cells and contribute to their recovery. Medicines have virtually no side effects. It is extremely rare that they can cause an allergic reaction if a person has an individual intolerance to the medication or loose stools.
2. Plant flavonoids. Such medications are natural compounds - natural antioxidants. The action of the drugs is aimed at neutralizing free radicals. Medicines are obtained from medicinal plants: celandine, fumes, milk thistle, turmeric. These are quite popular hepatoprotectors. List of drugs that make up this group: “Karsil”, “Gepabene”, “Silimar”, “Legalon”, “Hepatofalk Planta”. Such medications have a small list of side effects. In some cases, they can provoke allergic manifestations or loose stools. These drugs have not only a hepatoprotective effect. They perfectly relieve spasms of the gallbladder, help improve the outflow of bile and its production. That is why these medications are prescribed for hepatitis accompanied by biliary dyskinesia and cholecystitis.
3. Amino acid derivatives. These medications are based on protein components and other necessary substances for the body. This ensures the direct participation of these drugs in metabolism. They complement and normalize the metabolic process, have a detoxifying effect and help support the body. In severe forms of intoxication and liver failure, these are the hepatoprotectors that are prescribed. The list of drugs included in the number of amino acid derivatives is as follows: “Heptral”, “Heptor”, “Hepa-Merz”, “Hepasol A”, “Hepasol Neo”, “Remaxol”, “Gepasteril”. These drugs often cause side effects. Among them are: discomfort in the abdominal area, nausea, diarrhea.
4. Ursodeoxycholic acid medications. These medications are based on a natural component - the bile of the Himalayan bear. This substance is called ursodeoxycholic acid. The component helps improve the solubility and removal of bile from the human body. The substance leads to a decrease in damage and death of liver cells in a variety of ailments. Ursodeoxycholic acid has an immunomodulatory effect. In cases of cholelithiasis, fatty hepatosis, biliary cirrhosis, and alcoholic illness, these hepatoprotectors for the liver will benefit. List of the most effective drugs: “Ursodex”, “Ursodez”, “Ursosan”, “Ursofalk”, “PMS-ursodiol”, “Urdoxa”, “Ursofalk”, “Urso 100”, “Ursodeoxycholic acid”, “Ursoliv”, “ Ursolizin", "Ursorom S", "Ursohol", "Choludexan". These medications are contraindicated in cases of severe liver and kidney failure, decompensated liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, acute ulcers, calcium gallstones, acute inflammation of the bladder.

In addition to the drugs listed above, there are other drugs that have hepatoprotective properties.

These include dietary supplements:

• "Hepaphor."
• "Sibektan".
• "LIV-52".
• "Gepagard."
• "Pumpkin."

Some homeopathic medicines also have a hepatoprotective effect:

• "Hepel."
• "Galstena."
• "Sirepar".

However, the concentration of necessary substances in these drugs is insufficient. Therefore, they are not recommended for use in case of illness.

Let's look at the most effective hepatoprotectors - a list of the best medications, according to doctors.

Description of the drug Legalon

Legalon is produced in Germany by Madaus. Sold in the form of capsules of 70 and 140 mg. Belongs to the group of hepatoprotectors. The main active ingredient is silymarin.

In addition to the main hepatoprotective effect, the drug has a detoxification effect. The substance in Legalon prevents the destruction of healthy organ cells by neutralizing free radicals. Taking the medicine helps restore damaged hepatocytes and stabilize cell membranes. Treatment prevents the penetration of hepatotoxic substances into the liver.

The positive effect is a general improvement in the well-being of patients with pathologies of the hepatobiliary system. The medicine reduces the severity of clinical symptoms, subjective complaints and objective indicators.

A long course of use of the herbal remedy increases life expectancy in cirrhosis.

Research and effectiveness

A study conducted in 2007 involved 103 patients with chronic liver disease. The main group additionally took Legalon at a dose of 140 mg 3 times a day. The treatment lasted for 3 weeks.

The results showed that the inclusion of the drug Legalon in therapy affects the positive dynamics of liver recovery, which is confirmed by laboratory tests.

Can I take it together?

Despite the almost identical principle of action of Ursosan and Heptral, the clinical compatibility of the drugs is negative. They are rarely prescribed simultaneously. There is no information with a high level of reliability on the complex use of two hepatoprotectors. There have been no studies conducted to confirm or refute the theory about the possible benefits of combining two drugs. Complex therapy is expensive for the patient.

How to use

Capsules are intended for oral administration. They are drunk whole, without deforming the gelatin container and washed down with a sufficient amount of warm water. The dosage regimen is selected individually depending on the pathology. For cholelithiasis and diffuse liver diseases, the daily dose should not exceed 15 mg/kg of the patient’s weight, which is equivalent to 3-5 capsules. For convenience, the therapeutic dose is divided into several doses.

For gallstone disease, the patient should drink 2-3 capsules once 1.5-2 hours before bedtime. The course of treatment varies from several weeks to several months. People suffering from primary biliary cirrhosis are recommended to take 6 capsules per day. Doctors advise dividing the dose into 2-3 doses.

It is recommended to drink Heptral tablets 30-40 minutes before meals. The tablet is snapped out of the blister 1-2 minutes before administration. The daily dose should not exceed 400 mg, which is equivalent to 4 tablets. Experts recommend dividing the daily dose into 2 doses. The dosage form is placed in the mouth and swallowed whole without chewing. The course of application directly depends on the degree of the disease and the general condition of the patient.

The injection solution can be administered intramuscularly or intravenously. When administered intravenously, the plunger of the syringe must be pressed slowly.

Description of the product Karsil

The hepatoprotective drug Karsil contains silymarin. It is produced in the form of tablets and capsules by Sopharma, Bulgaria. It also has an antitoxic effect and is used to treat pathologies of the hepatobiliary system.

Silymarin in the composition stimulates the synthesis of proteins and phospholipids in damaged cells. It normalizes cellular metabolism, neutralizes free radicals and protects hepatocytes from harmful factors. While taking Karsil, fibrosis slows down.

Silymarin controls cell permeability and has regulatory and metabolic effects. Flavonoids improve liver recovery rates and reduce the severity of clinical manifestations. Patients experience improved general well-being, increased appetite, and normalized food digestibility.

Research and effectiveness

Liver products based on silymarin are the most studied. They are widely used for gentle organ restoration with minimal side effects.

The main effect of the drug is its membrane-stabilizing effect. Silymarin reduces the susceptibility of cells to toxic substances.

The additional use of Karsil in the complex therapy of chronic hepatitis can accelerate the normalization of biochemical and clinical parameters. This is a low-toxic drug that can be used over a long course.

Karsil is prescribed for chronic liver pathologies, taking into account its hepatoprotective, antioxidant, membrane-stabilizing, detoxifying effects.

Source: Experience with the use of the drug Karsil in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. V.N. Kozko. Pharmacist. 2010.

Contraindications

Carsil is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to silymarin and additional components of the drug. Tablets are prohibited up to 5 years, capsules - up to 12 years.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the safety of the drug is unknown; this group of patients should not use Karsil without a doctor's permission.

Side effects

The herbal remedy is well tolerated. In rare cases, gastrointestinal symptoms are observed. These are nausea, loose stools, dyspepsia. An allergic reaction in the form of itching, rash and alopecia is also possible. Vestibular disorders appear even less frequently.

Side effects from Karsil are not dangerous and go away on their own. Discontinuation of the drug is usually not required, but you should consult your doctor to adjust the treatment regimen.

Dosage

Tablets and capsules are taken orally. After 12 years, for mild and moderate disorders, 1-2 pieces 3 times are indicated. In severe forms of the disease, the dose is increased to 2-4 tablets 3 times.

From 5 to 12 years, the daily dosage should not exceed 3 mg/kg for 2-3 doses. The duration of therapy is regulated by the attending physician and averages 3 months.

Who is it suitable for?

Karsil is used for toxic lesions, cirrhosis, and inflammatory liver diseases as maintenance therapy.

Indications for use of the product are:

elimination of the consequences of acute hepatitis;

drug and alcohol damage;

prevention of drug and alcohol intoxication.

Disorders of the hepatobiliary system are the result of poor nutrition, toxic effects on liver cells, as well as viral and parasitic infections. To facilitate the treatment of the disease, it is necessary to select a medicine with hepatoprotective properties and proven effectiveness.

Legalon is a hepatoprotective drug of plant origin, used both as part of combination treatment and for monotherapy. The medication is prescribed as an adjuvant for toxic hepatitis, after poisoning and for the prevention of liver dysfunction.

The drug "Galstena"

This remedy is one of the best medicines to combat liver diseases in children. This drug can be used from the first days of a baby’s life. The medicine is a representative of a group that includes combined hepatoprotectors (drugs).

The instructions indicate that the medication has a protective effect on liver cells. It promotes the production of bile of normal consistency. This prevents the formation of stones. The medicine relieves pain in the liver area and relieves spasms.

The medication is used in the treatment of hepatitis. It is also prescribed to prevent damage to liver cells. This remedy is recommended for patients undergoing chemotherapy or antibiotic treatment.

The medicine has virtually no contraindications. It is not recommended for use only by those who have individual sensitivity to the components of the medication.

Properties of drugs

Hepatoprotectors are medicines based only on substances of natural origin and natural components of the internal environment of the body. The properties of this type of substance include:

• restoration of liver activity;
• acceleration of metabolic processes;
• neutralization of toxins that have entered the body and settled in it;
• revival of hepatocytes (liver cells), resistance to harmful factors;
• dilution of bile and its outflow.

Medicines for the treatment of the liver are distinguished according to three criteria: origin, active component and method of action.

Reviews from doctors about Heptral and Ursosan

Gradov I., general practitioner, candidate of sciences, Ekaterinburg

The therapeutic effect of Ursosan has been fully proven in relation to diseases of the gallbladder and liver. I use it in differential diagnosis between true polyps and pseudopolyps in the gallbladder. Dissolves small stones (no more than 7-8 mm) in the ducts. If a patient has been diagnosed with gastric ulcers simultaneously with cholelithiasis, the hepatoprotector must be taken carefully so as not to aggravate the situation.

The drug can only be purchased with a prescription written in Latin by your doctor. If all instructions are followed, the risk of side effects is minimal, and the medication is well tolerated by patients. In rare cases, patients complain of vomiting, defecation disorders, and partial hair loss. Allergic reactions can manifest themselves in the form of severe itching or facial flushing.

Voropaeva L., gastroenterologist, St. Petersburg

In practice, I have been using Heptral for several years. Its effectiveness has been tested by our own experience. I prescribe the medication for toxic liver damage of alcoholic and non-alcoholic etiology. Can be taken in the initial stages of cirrhosis. I recommend administering the solution intramuscularly or intravenously for 6-7 days, then switching to the oral dosage form.

Among the disadvantages, I can note the high cost of the course. The laboratory and clinical effect is quite pronounced; the drug can be taken during the rehabilitation period after surgery on the gallbladder.

Patients' opinions

Zlata, 42 years old, Novorossiysk

I first learned about Ursosan 7 years ago. Periodic acute pain turned out to be an attack of cholecystitis, and during treatment, fatty hepatosis was diagnosed. The skin acquired a yellow tint, the whites of the eyes also turned yellow. She gradually began to lose her appetite, her stool became irregular, and her stomach was constantly bloated. I started treatment with minimal doses – I took 2 capsules per day. After 7 days, with the doctor’s permission, the dose was increased to 3 capsules, then to 4. There were no side effects, the body tolerated the drug well.

Andrey, 29 years old, Magnitogorsk

I play sports professionally, so I started preparing for competitions 6 months in advance. I followed a protein diet, which “planted” the liver. The bitter taste in my mouth and regular bouts of nausea forced me to see a doctor. Passed tests; bilirubin is several times higher than normal. I took a course of Heptral, took 2 tablets a day for 4 weeks, my condition improved. The drug is expensive, but the price fully corresponds to its quality.

Means "Antral"

The hepatoprotective agent Ursosan contains ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). This is one of the few substances that has proven effectiveness in treating the liver. Available in the form of 250 mg tablets. Manufacturer – PRO.MED.CS Praha as

The medicine is a hepatoprotector and is used to restore hepatocytes in various liver diseases. In addition, ursodeoxycholic acid has immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic, cholelitholytic, hypocholesterolemic, and choleretic effects.

UDCA is incorporated into liver cells, stabilizing their membrane and protecting them from the harmful effects of acids, reducing their toxicity. The immunomodulatory effect is due to the normalization of lymphocyte activity and a decrease in the number of eosinophils.

The use of ursodeoxycholic acid prevents the development of drug-induced liver damage and promotes the restoration of organ cells. The drug Ursosan is effective in the treatment of pathologies of the hepatobiliary system. The medicine is good at eliminating cholestasis syndromes.

The product with UDCA promotes the normal function of the biliary tract. Ursosan acts as an endothelial corrector, while simultaneously exhibiting antifibrotic properties.

When the drug is prescribed to patients with cirrhosis at a dosage of 500 mg/day for a month, a decrease in the clinical manifestations of the disease is observed. Examination of patients shows improvement in cholestasis and cytolysis.

Hepatoprotector Heptral is a medicine from Abbott Laboratories S.A. The main active ingredient is ademetionine. Available in tablet form, solution, powder. One tablet contains 760 mg of ademetionine.

The medicine is used to combat various forms of hepatitis. The drug is excellent at reducing the level of bilirubin, liver enzymes that penetrate into the bloodstream as a result of cell damage. In addition, it is used for prophylaxis in immunodeficiency or chemotherapy.

The product has an excellent anti-inflammatory effect and helps activate regenerative processes in cells.

The medication has a small number of contraindications and side effects. It is not recommended for use in acute renal failure.

The medicine is not prescribed to children under 4 years of age.

Hepatoprotectors with unproven effectiveness

Pharmaceutical companies, with the help of advertising, are very actively promoting the idea of ​​the need to use hepatoprotectors for “liver restoration” to the masses. And this opinion is supported by many people who abuse alcohol and do not follow a diet, which provokes the development of liver diseases. At the moment, several hundred names of drugs are declared in the category “hepatoprotectors” in the Russian Federation, but not all of them are effective.

Essential phospholipids

To treat liver diseases, doctors often prescribe essential phospholipids, for example, Essentiale, Phosphogliv, Eslever, etc. Phospholipids are structural components of cell membranes. It is assumed that when these hepatoprotective agents are used, phospholipids are incorporated into damaged areas of the cell membrane of hepatocytes, thereby restoring them. However, in reality, not everything is so perfect.

Important

In European countries and the USA, essential phospholipids are classified as dietary supplements and are used extremely rarely.

In 2003, in the United States, Veterans Affairs medical centers conducted a large randomized study of the effectiveness of phospholipids in the treatment of liver diseases. The clinical study involved 789 patients with cirrhotic liver damage due to alcohol consumption. Two years later, liver samples were taken from the patients and it was found that the use of phospholipids had no effect on the reversal of fibrosis and generally had no positive effect on liver function compared with placebo. Moreover, it turned out that in case of hepatitis, the use of phospholipids is contraindicated, since these drugs can aggravate cholestasis and cytolysis.

Herbal preparations

The category of hepatoprotectors also includes various herbal preparations. Thus, preparations based on the milk thistle plant are very popular in Russia - Karsil, Gepabene, Legalon, etc. It is known that milk thistle preparations have a choleretic effect. Their use promotes the complete outflow of bile and, as a result, improves well-being. It has also been proven that milk thistle alkaloid, silibinin, is effective against liver damage from the poison of toadstool. It was assumed that milk thistle preparations could have a positive effect on alcohol damage to hepatocytes, but the data from scientific trials are ambiguous.

Thus, the results of one scientific study (Ferenci et al., 1989) of intravenous use of milk thistle preparations (silibinin) for alcoholic liver damage indicate an increase in patient survival. However, the results of another study (Pares et al., 1998) suggest that the use of silibinin does not significantly affect the course of alcoholic liver disease and the survival of patients. The effect of oral forms of silibinin was also studied, however, in this case, no significant improvements in the histological picture of the liver or biochemical blood parameters were recorded.

Thus, the search for effective hepatoprotectors is still an urgent task for scientists. Also a promising direction is a detailed study of currently existing hepatoprotective agents and conducting large-scale scientific research that could reliably prove the effectiveness of their use.

Valeria Grigorova, doctor, medical columnist

4, total, today

( 61 votes, average: 4.46 out of 5)

Related Posts

• Sprays Tantum Verde and Tantum Verde Forte: instructions for use, contraindications and analogues

• Ginkgo Biloba - instructions for use, properties and contraindications

Milk thistle

This is one of the popular hepatoprotectors of plant origin. The necessary substance, silymarin, is obtained from the ripe fruits of milk thistle. It is found in many effective medicines.

Milk thistle-based hepatoprotector preparations:

• "Legalon".
• "Gepabene."
• "Karsil".

Such medications are used for toxic liver damage, hepatitis, and fatty disease. In addition, milk thistle has been scientifically proven to have antioxidant properties. It protects the liver from the development of connective tissue and provides an excellent anti-inflammatory effect.

Such features make it possible to prescribe these hepatoprotectors (herbal preparations) to patients suffering from chronic gland pathologies.

Medicines based on silymarin are approved for use in children from the age of five.

Hepatoprotectors of plant origin

A number of plants have been used to treat the liver since ancient times. Milk thistle, pumpkin seeds and artichokes were widely used in folk medicine. Since 1968, when scientists isolated silymarin in milk thistle, the main component against liver disease, the plant began to be used to make medicines.

Silymarin prevents the growth of fibrous formations, neutralizes the action of free radicals and prevents the destruction of cell membranes. In addition, it neutralizes the effects of toxins well.

Today there are many medicines made from milk thistle. These are natural hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness. Most popular:

• Legalon,
• Karsil,
• Silimar.

These drugs are used for various liver pathologies and are successfully used for prevention. But to treat severe damage to liver cells, taking these single-component substances alone is not enough.

Medicines that combine several herbal components are more popular among patients. These include Ovesol, Liv-52, Gepatrin, Dipana. The herbal composition of these products not only performs protective functions for the liver, but also provides an anti-inflammatory and regenerative effect.

Medicine "Cholenzim"

The product is an effective combination drug. It combines bile and certain pancreatic enzymes. This drug increases the flow of bile and significantly improves digestion.

The product is used for cholecystitis, chronic hepatitis and some pathologies of the digestive system. Contraindications to the use of the drug "Cholenzim" are: obstructive jaundice, acute pancreatitis. In some cases, side effects in the form of allergic reactions (itching, redness) are possible.

This product is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.