Inhibits lipid peroxidation, scavenges free radicals, and stimulates hepatocyte protein synthesis and regeneration; protects against Amanita mushroom toxin
At a glance
Class
Hepatoprotectant / Nutraceutical (flavonoid antioxidant)
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from moisture
Dosing
Hepatic support / Hepatotoxicity / Mushroom toxicosis adjunct
Max dose
1000 mg/dose; 3000 mg/day
Duration: Long-term for chronic liver disease; acute courses for toxicosis
Hepatic support / Hepatic lipidosis adjunct
Max dose
200 mg/dose; 600 mg/day
Duration: Long-term
Safety
None well-documented
Generally very safe
Adverse effects
Serious
None reported at therapeutic doses
Hepatic enzymesBile acids
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract)?
Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) is a hepatoprotectant / nutraceutical (flavonoid antioxidant) used in pets. Inhibits lipid peroxidation, scavenges free radicals, and stimulates hepatocyte protein synthesis and regeneration; protects against Amanita mushroom toxin
›What is Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) used for in pets?
Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) is used in veterinary medicine for: Hepatic support / Hepatotoxicity / Mushroom toxicosis adjunct; Hepatic support / Hepatic lipidosis adjunct.
›What is the Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) is typically dosed as follows — Hepatic support / Hepatotoxicity / Mushroom toxicosis adjunct: 20–50 mg/kg PO SID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) dose for cats?
For cats, Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) is typically dosed as follows — Hepatic support / Hepatic lipidosis adjunct: 10–25 mg/kg PO SID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract)?
Common: Mild GI upset (rare). Serious (call your vet immediately): None reported at therapeutic doses.
›Does Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) need a prescription?
Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) 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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