Flavonolignan complex extracted from Silybum marianum. Antioxidant that scavenges free radicals; inhibits toxin membrane transport into hepatocytes; promotes hepatocyte regeneration by stimulating ribosomal protein synthesis; anti-inflammatory (TNF-α, NF-κB inhibition).
At a glance
Class
Hepatoprotective Botanical / Nutraceutical
Storage
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place; protect from light
Dosing
Hepatoprotective for hepatotoxin exposure (mushroom toxin, NSAID hepatopathy, co
Used for hepatic lipidosis, cholangiohepatitis, and hepatotoxin exposure
Safety
Hepatic enzymes every 4–8 weeksClinical signs of hepatic dysfunction
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Silymarin (Milk Thistle)?
Silymarin (Milk Thistle) is a hepatoprotective botanical / nutraceutical used in pets. Flavonolignan complex extracted from Silybum marianum. Antioxidant that scavenges free radicals; inhibits toxin membrane transport into hepatocytes; promotes hepatocyte regeneration by stimulating ribosomal protein synthesis; anti-inflammatory (TNF-α, NF-κB inhibition).
›What is Silymarin (Milk Thistle) used for in pets?
Silymarin (Milk Thistle) is used in veterinary medicine for: Hepatoprotective for hepatotoxin exposure (mushroom toxin, NSAID hepatopathy, co; Used for hepatic lipidosis, cholangiohepatitis, and hepatotoxin exposure.
›What is the Silymarin (Milk Thistle) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Silymarin (Milk Thistle) is typically dosed as follows — Hepatoprotective for hepatotoxin exposure (mushroom toxin, NSAID hepatopathy, co: 50–200 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Silymarin (Milk Thistle) dose for cats?
For cats, Silymarin (Milk Thistle) is typically dosed as follows — Used for hepatic lipidosis, cholangiohepatitis, and hepatotoxin exposure: 50–70 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Silymarin (Milk Thistle) need a prescription?
Silymarin (Milk Thistle) is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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