Can patients with cirrhosis take liver-protective tablets?

Sep 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, patients with early-stage cirrhosis or those in the compensated phase can appropriately take liver-protecting tablets. These tablets help reduce transaminase levels, lower blood lipids, and promote lipid metabolism, thus aiding in alleviating the symptoms of chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. It is also important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, follow a light diet, and engage in appropriate physical activity.

In general, whether patients with liver cirrhosis can take hepatoprotective tablets depends on the specific condition of their disease. Patients with early-stage liver cirrhosis may take hepatoprotective tablets as directed by a physician; however, those in the advanced stages of cirrhosis are generally advised against taking these tablets. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Hepatoprotective tablets are a type of traditional Chinese medicine primarily composed of ingredients such as Bupleurum, Artemisia capillaris, Isatis root, Schisandra fruit, pig bile powder, and green beans. These tablets offer liver-protective, liver-supporting, and liver-regulating effects, promoting functions such as soothing the liver and regulating qi, strengthening the spleen, and improving digestion. They also help lower transaminase levels, reduce blood lipids, and promote lipid metabolism, thereby assisting in alleviating symptoms of chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis. Patients with early-stage or compensated liver cirrhosis may take hepatoprotective tablets in moderation.

When liver cirrhosis progresses to the decompensated stage, the liver's ability to metabolize drugs declines. Excessive drug intake may increase the liver's burden and even lead to drug-induced liver injury. Therefore, patients should not self-administer hepatoprotective tablets without medical supervision in such cases.

During the course of the illness, patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid alcohol consumption, and minimize exposure to other hepatotoxic substances to support treatment and prevent disease progression.

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