Registered Malawi · PMRA

MILK THISTLE 100MG TABLET

MILK THISTLE

PMPB/403/20 TABLET

What it does

Milk is a nutritious beverage that provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Commonly used for: bone health (osteoporosis), muscle growth and repair, hydration

Read more in plain English ↓

Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.

Sourcing - Kenya only

Registration & product details

Registration no.
PMPB/403/20
Registration date
13/10/2011
Expiry date
30/06/2015
Status
Registered
Active ingredient
MILK THISTLE
Dosage form
TABLET
Strength
-
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
RxNorm RxCUI
892665
Manufacturer / MAH
-
Applicant / LTR
-
Country of origin
-

Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:38 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:03

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority (Malawi). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

About milk

Milk is a nutritious beverage that provides essential vitamins and minerals.

What it treats

  • bone health (osteoporosis)
  • muscle growth and repair
  • hydration

How it works

Milk contains calcium and protein, which are important for building strong bones and muscles.

Who it's for

Milk is suitable for most people, including children, adults, and the elderly.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

About thistle

Thistle is a natural herb often used to support liver health and may help in digestion.

What it treats

  • liver problems
  • digestive issues

How it works

Thistle is believed to help protect the liver and promote its function, aiding in digestion and detoxification.

Who it's for

People looking for natural support for their liver and digestive health.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

Clinical monograph: milk

Milk is a nutrient-rich liquid produced by the mammary glands of mammals, primarily composed of water, carbohydrates (mainly lactose), fats, proteins (casein and whey), vitamins, and minerals. It serves as a primary source of nutrition for infants and is also consumed by people of all ages for its health benefits. Milk is a source of essential nutrients including calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, and potassium, contributing to bone health, muscle function, and overall growth.

Indications

  • Nutritional supplementation
  • Bone health support
  • Growth and development in children
  • Muscle repair and recovery
  • Hydration

Dosage

Children: Refer to pediatric dietary guidelines; daily intake varies by age, generally 2-2.5 servings per day for children.

Adults: Refer to dietary guidelines for recommended daily intake of dairy products, typically 2-3 servings per day.

Mechanism of action

The components of milk, particularly its proteins and fats, are digested and metabolized to provide energy and essential nutrients. Lactose is broken down into glucose and galactose by the enzyme lactase. Calcium and vitamin D are crucial for bone metabolism, while proteins support muscle and tissue repair and growth.

Pharmacodynamics

The consumption of milk leads to increased levels of calcium and other minerals in the bloodstream, which are vital for maintaining bone density and structure. The proteins in milk contribute to muscle protein synthesis and repair, alongside providing a source of energy. The bioactive compounds in milk may also have protective effects against certain diseases.

Pharmacokinetics

After ingestion, milk is digested in the stomach and small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. The absorption of lactose depends on the presence of lactase. The fats are emulsified and absorbed through the lymphatic system. Calcium absorption can be enhanced by vitamin D. The metabolic effects vary based on individual tolerance and the presence of digestive enzymes.

Adverse effects

  • Lactose intolerance may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
  • Allergic reactions may occur in individuals with a milk allergy, potentially leading to anaphylaxis.

Precautions

  • Use with caution in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
  • Consult a healthcare provider before introducing milk into the diet of infants.

Pregnancy

Milk is generally considered safe during pregnancy, providing essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. However, pregnant individuals should opt for pasteurized milk to reduce the risk of infections.

Breast-feeding

Milk can be consumed during breastfeeding, but it is important to monitor for any allergic reactions in the infant, especially if there is a family history of allergies.

Storage

Store milk in a cool place, preferably refrigerated at 4°C or lower. Consume before the expiration date to ensure safety and quality.

Formulations

  • Whole milk
  • Skimmed milk
  • Low-fat milk
  • Condensed milk
  • Evaporated milk
  • Milk powder

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Clinical monograph: thistle

Thistle, particularly milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is a flowering plant known for its medicinal properties, primarily derived from its seeds. The active compound, silymarin, is used to protect the liver and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for liver disorders, including hepatitis and cirrhosis, and for supporting overall liver health.

Indications

  • Hepatitis
  • Cirrhosis
  • Fatty liver disease
  • Liver toxicity
  • Liver support during chemotherapy

Dosage

Children: Refer to established herbal guidelines or clinical protocols for appropriate dosing of silymarin in children.

Adults: Refer to established herbal guidelines or clinical protocols for appropriate dosing of silymarin.

Mechanism of action

Silymarin, the active component of milk thistle, exerts its effects through several mechanisms. It stabilizes cell membranes, inhibits the binding of toxins to liver cells, and promotes protein synthesis. Silymarin also acts as an antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the liver. Additionally, it may enhance the regeneration of liver cells and modulate inflammatory responses.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of silymarin relates to its ability to protect hepatocytes from toxic injury, enhance liver regeneration, and reduce inflammation in the liver. Its antioxidant properties help to mitigate damage caused by reactive oxygen species, which can be involved in liver disease progression. Silymarin has been shown to improve liver function tests and may support the recovery of liver function in patients with liver diseases.

Pharmacokinetics

Silymarin is not well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract; however, when it is absorbed, it is metabolized in the liver. The bioavailability of silymarin is low due to extensive first-pass metabolism. The elimination half-life can vary, but it is generally believed to be around 6 hours. Silymarin is excreted primarily in the bile and urine, and its pharmacokinetic profile can be influenced by factors such as formulation and dosage.

Adverse effects

  • Gastrointestinal disturbances
  • Allergic reactions
  • Headache

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family
  • Should be used cautiously in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions

Pregnancy

Safety during pregnancy has not been established; consult healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

Safety during breastfeeding has not been established; consult healthcare provider before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Formulations

  • Capsules
  • Tinctures
  • Powdered extracts

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

This drug in other countries

The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.