Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Siliphos

Also known as: Siliphos, Silibinin phytosome, Silybin phytosome, Milk Thistle extract phytosome, Silymarin phytosome

Overview

Siliphos, also known as silibinin phytosome or silybin phytosome, is a phytosome formulation of silibinin, a key component of silymarin extracted from the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum). As a phytosome, it is designed to enhance the bioavailability of silibinin compared to standard silymarin extracts. Primarily, Siliphos is used for its potential hepatoprotective effects, aiming to support liver health and treat liver diseases. The formulation improves the solubility and absorption of silibinin in the gastrointestinal tract. Research on Siliphos is considered to be at a moderate maturity level, with several clinical trials and systematic reviews evaluating its efficacy. However, the quality of available evidence is variable, with some studies showing significant benefits while others indicate limited clinical relevance. It is available as an herbal supplement.

Benefits

Siliphos, primarily through its active component silymarin, has demonstrated some potential benefits in liver health. A meta-analysis indicated that silymarin reduced serum levels of ALT and AST in patients with liver diseases, although the clinical significance of these reductions is debated. Another review suggested that silymarin may reduce aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in alcoholic liver disease and potentially lower liver-related mortality in cirrhosis, especially of alcoholic origin. Some studies also suggest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, though these are less quantified specifically for Siliphos. Benefits are typically observed over several months of treatment. However, the effect sizes observed in meta-analyses are statistically significant but often lack clinical significance.

How it works

Siliphos works primarily through the action of silibinin, its active component, which is believed to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects. It may protect liver cells by inhibiting the entry of toxins into hepatocytes. Silibinin interacts with various molecular targets, including cytochrome P450 enzymes, which can influence its metabolism and bioavailability. The phytosome formulation of Siliphos enhances the bioavailability of silibinin compared to standard silymarin extracts, improving its solubility and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. This enhanced absorption allows for potentially lower effective doses.

Side effects

Siliphos is generally considered safe, with few reported side effects. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, though these are not frequently reported. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include allergic reactions and skin rashes. There are no well-documented rare side effects specifically associated with Siliphos. Potential drug interactions may occur with drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, although this is more theoretical and not well-documented for Siliphos specifically. Due to limited data, caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Patients with liver disease should consult their healthcare provider before using Siliphos, especially if they are on other medications.

Dosage

Typical dosages of Siliphos range from 70 to 140 mg of silibinin per day, often given in divided doses. Optimal dosages are generally in the range of 140-280 mg per day, with the phytosome formulation potentially allowing for lower effective doses due to enhanced bioavailability. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 280 mg per day are not commonly studied. Dosages can be taken with meals to enhance absorption. The phytosome formulation is recommended for its enhanced bioavailability. No specific cofactors are required for the absorption or efficacy of Siliphos.

FAQs

Is Siliphos safe?

Siliphos is generally considered safe but should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially for those with liver disease or taking other medications.

When should I take Siliphos?

It is recommended to take Siliphos with meals to enhance absorption of silibinin, its active component.

What results can I expect from taking Siliphos?

Patients may expect improvements in liver function tests (e.g., ALT, AST levels) over several months, although clinical significance is variable.

Is Siliphos a cure for liver diseases?

No, Siliphos is not a cure for liver diseases but may be used as a supportive element in therapy to help manage liver health.

Research Sources

https://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/full/v23/i27/5004.htm – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that silymarin reduced serum levels of ALT and AST in patients with liver diseases, but the reductions were not considered clinically significant. The review included 17 studies, with 6 in the meta-analysis, involving adult and elderly patients with liver diseases, and noted a high degree of heterogeneity and low methodological quality in the included studies.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18334810/ – This systematic review with meta-analysis included 19 clinical trials involving patients with liver diseases and focused on alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis. The key findings indicated a reduction in AST levels in alcoholic liver disease and a potential reduction in liver-related mortality in cirrhosis, but the review noted limited evidence for therapeutic effects in toxic liver diseases and viral hepatitis.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1534735407301942 – This systematic review evaluated the safety and efficacy of milk thistle extracts, including silymarin, across various clinical trials. The review highlighted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects but noted limited clinical evidence for specific benefits of Siliphos due to a lack of standardized dosing and formulation across studies.