Effect of Silymarin (Milk Thistle) on Liver Disease in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Unsuccessfully Treated With Interferon Therapy

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects almost 3% of the global population and may lead to cirrhosis, hepatic failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma.¹ Sustained virological response can be achieved in patients treated with peginterferon and ribavirin, often combined with an HCV protease inhibitor.^2-4 Nevertheless, a large proportion of patients do not respond to these therapies, and many others cannot be treated because of medical comorbidities.⁵ Thus, alternative medications with disease-modifying activity may be of benefit.