Hepatoprotectors: list of drugs, application features. What are hepatoprotectors and which of them have been proven effective: classification, list of the best drugs What does hepatoprotective action mean?

Recently, liver diseases have become quite common. These diseases cause pain, serious health problems and change the rest of your life. However, modern pharmacology is ready to offer many different ways to alleviate the suffering of the patient and, in some cases, cure him. One of the groups that are usually successfully used for diseases and disorders of the liver is called hepatoprotectors.

Medicines that are usually successfully used for diseases and disorders of the liver are called hepatoprotectors.

The principle of action of hepatoprotectors

Hepatoprotectors - what are they? They are combined into a pharmacological group of drugs of various kinds, which prevents liver destruction and stimulates the regeneration of all cells. Hepatoprotectors for the liver prevent the destruction of membranes inside the cell and, as a result, have a positive effect on it. The hepatoprotective properties of this medicine allow:

• Launch the mechanism of activity of enzyme systems.
• Achieve increased resistance to pathological changes.
• Increase the efficiency of the detoxification function.

Such therapy is aimed at restoring the functioning of the organ, but it only works if the patient refuses substances and alcoholic beverages that destroy his body, junk food and lifestyle. Evidence-based medicine confirms the positive effects of such drugs.

It is important to select medications with the correct meaning depending on what the patient needs. This may be a medicine containing phospholipids, amino acids or antioxidants.

Kinds

Hepatoprotective drugs include more than 700 different drugs that classified into synthetic and natural depending on their origin. These are mainly Russian remedies for liver restoration. Also, products are often divided according to their chemical composition into:

Hepatoprotective drugs include more than 700 different drugs

• Antioxidants.
• Amino acids.
• Phospholipids.
• New generation vitamins.

The classification of drugs by mode of action divides the rating of hepatoprotectors into choleretic drugs, bile-based drugs and various other drugs. Modern medicines combine the best and most effective components that work as gently and effectively as possible to restore the liver. This includes a relatively small list of hepatoprotector drugs with proven and undeniable effectiveness. In cases where problems with the liver are minor, inexpensive and organ-supporting agents are prescribed.

The products are sold in ampoules, tablets and in the form of herbal preparations. The most effective among them are injections in ampoules, but they are not suitable for everyone and are prescribed for existing organ damage. In case of mild problems, herbal remedies and some types of tablets are prescribed, the names of which are listed below. Which one to choose - from the best or from the cheap? The quality does not always depend on the price of the medicine, so you should first consult a specialist.

Opens the list of medicines "Rezalut Pro", it best affects the symptoms of the hypothesis, modifications of hepatitis. It is believed that this is the most effective drug for maintaining the functioning of the organ; it reduces the pathogenic effects of destructive influences. However, relative to other drugs, Rezalut Pro is quite expensive.

Another drug called Heptral is a medicine with proven effectiveness only in Russia, Italy and Germany. In all other countries it is used only as a dietary supplement. It is used mainly for the prevention of liver diseases, since in severe forms of the disease it does not have a significant effect. The latest generations of this drug successfully support and maintain liver function.

Indications

Hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness are prescribed for various liver diseases, as well as in cases of inflammation or disease of the bile ducts. They are also prescribed if the disease has affected the gallbladder. Most often, such drugs are used for the following diseases and disorders of the body:

• Alcoholic hepatitis.
• Food infections and severe poisoning.
• With fatty hepatosis.
• For cholelithiasis.
• Toxic hepatitis.
• With cholistasis.
• For cancer in the early stages.

Hepatoprotectors for hepatitis C are a mandatory prescription from a doctor, along with giving up a harmful lifestyle and complying with all the specialist’s conditions. Such medications are good if a person is forced to work with harmful and toxic substances for a long time or constantly experiences severe physical exertion. They also have anti-fibrotic properties and promote rapid regeneration of liver tissue, so they are effectively used to reduce the load on the liver.

Hepatoprotectors for children and pregnant women

In some cases, it becomes necessary to prescribe hepatoprotectors during pregnancy, in newborns or small children under five years of age. The list of such drugs is much smaller than for other groups of the population, since large-scale studies have not been conducted.

During pregnancy, essential phospholipids can be used, as they have evidence of effectiveness and have no contraindications.

In some cases, it becomes necessary to prescribe hepatoprotectors during pregnancy

However, it is prohibited for use by children under 12 years of age, primarily due to the lack of the required amount of research in this area.

Hepatoprotectors for children have a more delicate composition and gentle effect. These include ursodeoxycholic acid preparations - Grinterol, Urso 100, Ursosan, Ursoliv and the like. Data on actual use in pediatrics are sparse, but no observations have revealed serious side effects or contraindications. Mild side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, allergies and the formation of calcifications on gallstones disappear immediately as soon as the medication is stopped.

Preparations containing milk thistle are also not used in children under five years of age. However, they are successfully used to destroy the oxidation process and toxic compounds, as well as to renew elements such as various components of the cell membrane. These drugs include Karsil, Geparsil, Levasil and others like them.

Both pregnant women and young children can take medicines based on artichoke. They have properties that stimulate bile formation and excretion, help keep cholesterol levels at an affordable level, and also have an antioxidant effect.

It is also possible for pregnant women to use hepatoprotectors that are of animal origin. Similar means can be used to reduce intoxication of the body. They promote the regeneration of organ tissue and this medicine is used exclusively by injection. Such drugs include Sirepar and Erbisol-Ultrapharm.

Hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness include the following:

• Essentiale Forte.
• Phosphogliv.
• Livolin forte.
• Sirepar.
• Karsil.
• Levasil.
• Ursosan.
• Uro 100.

Hepatoprotectors of plant origin

Natural hepatoprotectors have long been known both in medicine and among the people. After all, it was with the help of some plants that a diseased or poisoned liver was treated for many centuries.

Plant-derived hepatoprotectors often include milk thistle

Hepatoprotectors of plant origin have the fewest contraindications for use compared to similar chemically created drugs.

Natural components make these drugs harmless to the body if taken in limited quantities. Such medications help improve digestion, normalize the functioning of choleretic enzymes and protein synthesis. Similar medications are sold in tablets and dried herbal form. The most common ingredients include:

• Fruits of spotted milk thistle.
• Pumpkin seeds.
• Artichoke flowers.

These herbs can be called basic when prescribed for the treatment of the liver and gall bladder. In addition to them, you can often find yarrow, Cassia, cinchona, celandine and fumifera in herbal preparations.

Animal origin

Hepatoprotective agents, which are of animal origin, are prescribed to maintain the body primarily for people who suffer from drug or alcohol addiction, fatty liver, cirrhosis of any etiology, as well as alcohol abuse. Also Such medications are often prescribed for liver poisoning with some kind of poison or overdose of tablets. The main representatives of the species can be called Heptral, Gepadif, Sirepar and Hepatamin.

But you should not forget that drugs of this nature can harm the body, making immune reactions much stronger. As a result, a person develops an allergy, and if he has hepatitis, the cells of his body can begin to fight the person’s own cells. In addition, there is always a danger that a person will become infected with a prion infection of the animal from whose liver the drug was prepared. This can lead to degenerative changes and death.

In the Russian Federation, only two hepatoprotectors of animal origin were officially registered - Hepatosan and Sirepar.

But not a single piece of evidence has been registered or recorded that these particular drugs have a beneficial and effective effect on the liver. At the same time, there is always a potential danger from them, so they categorically cannot be used during periods of acute illness, in case of severe poisoning or organ dysfunction, so as not to lead to the death of the patient. They have a tangible advantage - they can only be purchased with a prescription from a specialist. This means that they will not be used uncontrollably.

Essential phospholipids

The liver has a phospholipid layer that is susceptible to destruction due to disease, poor lifestyle and other negative factors. Hepatoprotective agents and preparations containing essential phospholipids help the organ restore this membrane. Most often they are prescribed to children of different ages and pregnant women, as well as nursing mothers for problems with liver function.

They are widely used in cases where liver tissue is seriously damaged or many scars have formed on the organ. Modern drugs containing them can be prescribed for almost any severe organ damage, as well as the latest generations of these drugs are characterized by the absence of severe side effects.

When liver cells begin to need restoration, essential phospholipids can satisfy the need for this material. They trigger and accelerate the regeneration of organ cells, help restore the normal structure of the liver and normalize metabolism. In addition, they regulate lipid metabolism in the body and remove cholesterol from the body. The most prominent representatives of this type of medicine are Essliver forte, Phosphogliv, Essentiale forte N.

Preparations with amino acids

Most often, drugs such as hepatoprotectors with amino acids are prescribed to people who have severe liver damage. Amino acids are necessary not only when the liver is being treated, but also for healthy people. But in the latter case, a sufficient amount of beneficial enzymes enters the human body along with food. They are not prescribed often, as serious side effects are possible. The main active ingredient in these medications is ademetionine, ornithine or methionine.

This substance is an acid that helps the body and liver produce the required amount of phospholipids, and also increases its ability to regenerate. In addition, this substance is also an antidepressant, but its effectiveness has not yet been proven. Preparations based on it are most effective when administered intravenously - up to 90%, while the use of tablets for treating the liver can maintain effectiveness at the level of 5-10%. The most prominent representatives of this group are Ursofalk, Ursosan, Hepa Merz Heptral.

The use of these drugs or Essentiale Forte is most often prescribed in the following cases:

• Changes in the organ due to cirrhosis.
• Organ damage caused by xenobiotics.
• Poisoning of the body with vapors or substances containing benzene, arsenic or other heavy substances.
• As part of complex therapy for diabetes mellitus or protein deficiency.

Ursosan is a combination drug that can help both patients with cholelithiasis and liver disorders, and those without problems with the gallbladder. Most often it is prescribed once a day at night. Ursosan helps to liquefy cholesterol stones and bile, relieving the patient of its stagnation, and also has a beneficial effect on the liver. In addition, it is often prescribed for:

• Various types of hepatitis.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• Cysts of various sizes in the gallbladder and ducts.
• Biliary atresia.
• Stone formation in the gallbladder.
• Cleansing the gallbladder and liver.
• Billiary cirrhosis.

Hepa-Merz helps to launch protein synthesis processes in the body and activate cytological enzymes

How to take this drug for stagnation of bile in the body and how many tablets per day can only be clarified by a specialist, since there may be individual prescriptions. The use of Gepamerza is justified in cases where it is necessary to reduce the level of ammonia in the blood, which negatively affects the functioning of the liver. It helps to launch protein synthesis processes in the body and activate cytological enzymes.

But if you drink alcohol or eat a lot of fried foods, then these drugs will not help. In addition, Hepa Merz or Essentiale is prohibited from being used in any form if kidney function is impaired or intolerance to any of the components of the drug. It is also important to pay attention to possible side effects, such as diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, bloating, and dry mouth. If these signs of side effects occur moderately, you do not need to stop taking them. However, if nausea is constantly accompanied by vomiting and dizziness, and diarrhea does not give rest, then it is better to consult and replace these drugs with others. This may be evidence of intolerance or low effectiveness of these medications.

Based on milk thistle

This herb is one of the most commonly used in cases of liver disease. This plant stores the largest amount of microelements and vitamins, as well as a huge amount of biologically active substances. Hepatoprotectors based on milk thistle include the following substances:

• Selenium.
• Zinc.
• B vitamins.
• Copper.
• Fatty acid.

However, another component of milk thistle, silymarin, is considered the most important and effective. This is a complex of substances that includes silybin, silydianin and silicristin. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitoxic effects, and also accelerates the process of liver tissue regeneration.

In acute diseases or toxic lesions, such preparations based on milk thistle are ineffective, so it can be used in complex therapy.

Bile-based preparations

Preparations that contain real animal bile are called choleretics. They have a hepatoprotective effect and are prescribed for chronic bile stagnation, inflammatory diseases of the liver and bile ducts. These primarily include chronic cholangitis and cholecystitis.

To enhance the effect, they are used as part of complex therapy together with antispasmodics, analgesics, laxatives and antibiotics. It is important to note that they can cause diarrhea and allergic reactions as side effects. However, they cannot be used if the following contraindications exist:

• Hepatitis.
• Cirrhosis.
• Stomach ulcer.
• Erosion of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Pancreatitis.
• Diarrheal syndrome.

Homeopathic medicines

Taking homeopathic medicines to maintain the condition of the liver and treat its pathologies is very common. As a rule, such remedies have no side effects and give good results. They can be used both during therapy of a diseased organ and to support the functioning of a healthy one.

They can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription from a doctor, but you need to remember that you should not prescribe even such drugs yourself. Homeopathy includes a fairly wide range of medicines, but the most successful among them are Hepel, Chelidonium and Galstena.

Supplements

Unlike medicines, dietary supplements cannot cause harm because they do not contain chemical elements. You need to understand that any medication can disrupt the functioning of an organ or poison it if its use is long-term and intensive. Therefore, sometimes it is worth taking a closer look at safer products based on natural ingredients; in addition, they have practically no contraindications. However, it is important to remember that such drugs do not have the same effectiveness in treating hepatitis, acute disease states, or toxic liver damage. Among the most effective dietary supplements are:

• Hepaval. Most often prescribed for acute pancreatitis, poisoning, toxic uncomplicated liver damage and inflammation of the biliary tract.
• Coopers Neo. Helps the organ recover and supports it, and also protects against possible adverse environmental effects and other life factors.
• Hepatosol. Helps to evenly distribute the load on the liver and activate liver enzymes.

The opinion of doctors and modern medicine

All doctors agree on one opinion - hepatoprotectors help the liver work and recover with the correct selection and use of medications

All doctors agree on one opinion - hepatoprotectors help the liver work and recover with the correct selection and use of medications. It has not been proven whether dietary supplements, animal-based hepatoprotectors and vitamins actually help. However in case of illness, you should not abandon even these methods of restoring the functioning of the organ. Herbal hepatoprotectors have proven effectiveness, but cannot equal the effectiveness of synthetic substances that are prescribed for severe liver damage. Some cases of disease require the use of antibiotics or other drugs due to possible complications of the disease or if chronic damage to the patient's organs is detected.

The forms in which hepatoprotectors are sold are varied and depend on several factors:

• Patient's health status. Tablets are prescribed for minor illnesses and disorders, as well as in cases where the patient is able to swallow a tablet. If the patient is unconscious or confused, if he is vomiting, then a form of injection is chosen.
• Criticality of starting treatment. Tablets do not act as quickly as injections, so if you urgently need to alleviate the patient’s condition, then the injection form is chosen.
• Chemical structure of some drugs. There are substances that cannot be swallowed, as the body will simply digest them and expel them without having the desired effect. In this case, you don’t have to remember the country of manufacturer - all hepatoprotectors have a similar chemical structure.

The opinions of doctors are unanimous that it is necessary to use drugs to support the liver. However, you can start taking them only if there is a need for it - you can’t take pills just because it seems like it.

In addition, treatment must be carried out with suitable medications that are approved for this particular group of people. That is, pregnant women can only take a narrow range of medications.

A person must control the intake himself and not avoid it. Another important condition for treating the liver with hepatoprotectors is giving up bad habits and unhealthy lifestyles. You should not take pills to maintain and restore the liver and wash them down with alcohol. It is also necessary to conduct mandatory studies in order to promptly identify organ dysfunction, various types of liver tissue damage and the degree of the disease. Some diseases can be treated exclusively in a hospital and not with the help of dietary supplements. The patient must understand well that in case of serious illnesses, only herbal hepatoprotectors, vitamins or dietary supplements will not help him. In these cases, serious treatment is required, which will include complex medications aimed at maintaining the functioning of the entire body.

Video

Liver restoration. Hepatoprotectors.

Liver diseases are one of the common causes of disability and mortality in all countries, despite their economic development and climatic conditions. Every year, about 1 million people fall ill with liver diseases, most of whom are young, able-bodied people.

Experts note that the development of new drugs, vaccination and modern diagnostic methods do not give a positive trend: people continue to get hepatitis, cirrhosis, cancer, which is associated with many factors: alcoholism, unbalanced diet, poor environment, chronic diseases.

To alleviate the condition of victims and prevent the destruction of hepatocytes, many drugs have been developed, in particular, hepatoprotectors. Together with dietary nutrition and basic therapy, they normalize the basic functions of the liver, help restore its structure, and protect against the toxic effects of harmful compounds.

Any disease that affects the liver causes serious disruption in almost all body systems, since the organ performs a number of important functions, in particular the liver:

• responsible for protein, carbohydrate, lipid, pigment metabolism;
• neutralizes the harmful effects of toxins and drugs;
• stores vitamins and microelements;
• produces cholesterol and lipids;
• regulates blood clotting;
• responsible for the production of bile acids and their transport to the gallbladder;
• stimulates intestinal function;
• synthesizes and inactivates some hormones, including sex hormones;
• produces enzymes;
• is a blood repository.

Nature, having endowed the liver with so many functions, took care of its integrity. This is the only organ that can recover even after partial removal. But the body cannot always cope with some factors on its own, namely:

• obesity;
• alcohol;
• medications;
• genetic factors;
• drug use;
• poor environment;
• diabetes mellitus;
• physical inactivity;
• improper nutrition.

Although the liver is capable of recovery, prolonged excessive stress sooner or later disrupts its activity. Hepatoprotectors are designed to protect the liver from such factors. They, of course, will not replace basic therapy, but will complement the effect of prescribed medications and can improve the function of liver cells.

In case of liver pathologies (hepatitis, hepatosis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, cancer, etc.) and forced prolonged use of certain medications (anticonvulsants, antitumor, painkillers), the doctor must prescribe hepatoprotectors.

Recently, a myth has formed that this class of drugs is just an invention of “greedy” pharmacists who want to profit from the grief of patients and produce drugs with dubious effectiveness. Opponents of these drugs rely on the fact that in Europe and the USA, liver treatment is not carried out with such medications, since they do not exist in the list of pharmacological agents.

But in the same list there is another group of medications - cytoprotectors, which have a positive effect on the metabolism of the liver, kidneys, heart, dermis, which includes the well-known hepatoprotectors.

In addition, hepatoprotectors are called pharmaceuticals abroad, and some companies, for profit and convenience of registration, position them as dietary supplements (BAS). Not particularly honest manufacturers actually produced ineffective drugs using such hepatoprotector dietary supplements, which was the reason for the mistrust of patients and medical practitioners.

Meanwhile, by purchasing dietary supplements that have not passed clinical trials, which are not effective and do not help, patients waste time (for most liver diseases there is a period when the pathology can recur, and then only organ transplantation), hoping that one tablet will solve all their problems .

Patients should clearly understand that the use of clinically proven hepatoprotectors does accelerate liver recovery, but does not cancel diet and basic medications.

Modern hepatoprotectors can soften and alleviate liver disease, but they have their limits of effectiveness, and one cannot hope that this is a panacea for all problems with the organ.

Properties and types

There are several classes of hepatoprotectors, based on different components and having a specific mechanism of action, but they all have similar properties:

• they are based on natural ingredients;
• they restore the functioning of the diseased organ and normalize metabolism;
• remove toxins and neutralize their effects;
• accelerate the regeneration of hepatocytes, increase their resistance to harmful factors.

According to the mechanism of action, there are 6 types of hepatoprotectors based on:

• ursodeoxycholic acid;
• flavonoids from other plants;
• animal components;
• essential phospholipids;
• amino acids.

Based on ursodeoxycholic acid

The functions of ursodeoxycholic acid, which was previously extracted from bear bile and is now synthesized in laboratories, include:

• liver protection. With the help of acid, special particles are produced that neutralize the harmful effects of toxins;
• restoration of bile outflow and dilution of secretions, which promotes normal digestion and its discharge into the intestines;
• lowering cholesterol by reducing its synthesis and dissolving cholesterol stones;
• strengthening the immune system;
• positive effect on the bile ducts.

Hepatoprotectors ursodeoxycholic acid, in addition to the listed properties, have an antioxidant effect. Thanks to this, liver cells and the entire body are less susceptible to aging. Indications for prescribing such drugs are:

• toxic liver damage, including alcohol and drugs;
• hepatitis;
• bile duct dyskinesia;
• hepatosis;
• bile stagnation;
• cholangitis;
• cystic fibrosis;
• reflux gastritis;
• dyspeptic syndrome.

The most famous are:

They can be prescribed for long-term treatment (from 3 to 6 months), and are allowed for children. The disadvantage of the main ingredient is that it cannot be prescribed for:

• acute conditions of the intestines and gall bladder;
• problems with the functioning of the pancreas;
• renal pathologies;
• pregnancy and pregnancy.

With prolonged treatment, side effects (digestive upset) are observed. Therefore, it is not recommended to self-prescribe medicine to improve health and strengthen the liver. Only the doctor determines the dosage and duration of the course of therapy, depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the detected diseases.

With milk thistle

Herbal-based preparations have won the greatest confidence. Especially popular are the fruits of milk thistle, which contain many biologically active components (microelements, vitamins, organic acids).

Preparations based on milk thistle significantly reduce the toxic effect on the liver and promote the regeneration of cellular structures. In damaged hepatocytes, protein production is stimulated, cell membranes are stabilized, and the loss of trace elements stops, thereby increasing the natural regeneration of liver cells.

Some of the most popular medications include:

They are shown when:

• hepatitis;
• cirrhosis;
• steatosis;
• sudden weight loss.

These drugs are used to prevent liver pathologies during long-term medication use and chronic alcoholism. They are often well tolerated by patients and rarely cause side effects.

Flaws:

• decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptives when taken together;
• not prescribed for lactating and pregnant women;
• not prescribed for diseases of the female reproductive system (benign tumors, hormonal disorders, malignant neoplasms);
• are not compatible with a number of drugs, such as Diazepam, Ketoconazole (may enhance their effect).

With flavonoids from other plants

Milk thistle tablets are not the only herbal medicines that restore and protect the liver. Celandine, artichoke, pumpkin seeds, and fumes can act as active ingredients in a number of hepatoprotectors.

They are distinguished by a minimal number of side effects, the ability to eliminate spasms of the gallbladder, and improve the outflow and production of bile. For example, Allochol, which is not a hepatoprotector, also consists of plant components, but causes a lot of side effects. These drugs are prescribed for:

• hepatitis of various origins;
• gallbladder dyskinesia;
• cholecystitis;
• cirrhosis;
• hepatosis;
• exhaustion.

Disadvantages include the ability to provoke allergies and stool disorders. Not prescribed for pregnant and lactating women. The list of popular drugs includes:

With animal ingredients

Preparations created from pork liver are capable of regenerating hepatocytes of the human liver, since they are as similar in composition as possible. Thanks to their detoxifying and antioxidant effects, they treat hepatitis, hepatosis and cirrhosis of the liver. Among the positive qualities noted:

• the ability to remove toxins from the body;
• accelerate the regeneration of hepatocytes;
• restore lost liver functions.

• high risk of allergies;
• the risk of developing immunopathological syndromes in acute forms of hepatitis;
• they are not suitable for the prevention of liver diseases.

Clinically proven hepatoprotectors of this group include:

1. Sirepar, which has a detoxifying, liver-restoring effect.
2. Hepatosan has a metabolic effect that restores the functions of hepatocytes.

With essential phospholipids

According to statistics, these drugs are most common in post-Soviet regions. They are obtained from soybeans. Phospholipids are products of lipid metabolism, which are kind of building blocks for the construction of cells.

These substances are involved in the transport of nutrients, cell division and differentiation, and they activate various enzymatic systems. The advantages of hepatoprotectors based on essential phospholipids include:

• the ability to quickly restore hepatocytes at the molecular level;
• protection against toxins and viruses;
• improvement of the action of interferons;
• preventing the formation of scar tissue.

Such medications include:

They are prescribed for:

• acalculous cholecystitis;
• hepatitis;
• hepatosis;
• cirrhosis;
• neurodermatitis;
• psoriasis.

Among the disadvantages, they note the need for prolonged use of drugs in order to feel their effectiveness. Sometimes phospholipids cause bile stagnation. In addition, they are quickly broken down in the stomach, and only a small proportion of the active substances reaches its destination - the liver.

Other types

In the liver, amino acids participate in the production of phospholipids, break down fats, quickly restore hepatocytes, and remove toxins. The most popular acid in this class of hepatoprotectors is ademetionine, an amino acid involved in various biochemical processes occurring in the body. It improves the quality of bile, reduces its toxicity, and promotes the rapid outflow of bile acids. Also used:

Used in the treatment of:

• fatty hepatosis;
• hepatitis A;
• pancreatitis.

The list of main drugs includes:

These drugs are more likely to cause side effects than others. These include the occurrence of such violations:

• diarrhea;
• nausea;
• pain in the epigastric region.

Patient Experience

Let's consider the opinions of patients regarding the effectiveness of hepatoprotectors:

Anton: “I have had epilepsy since I was 21. As soon as anticonvulsant therapy was selected, the neurologist prescribed Karsil. I didn’t believe I would need it because I was taking handfuls of PEPs and didn’t want to add more medication to it. But after 3 years, liver tests worsened, and I had to cleanse my liver. Since then I’ve been taking hepatoprotectors twice a year and following diet No. 5.”

Anna: “Six months after giving birth, I was diagnosed with cholelithiasis due to high water levels during pregnancy. The uterus blocked the flow of bile, which caused stagnation and the formation of stones. I was not able to receive full treatment, since most medications cannot be taken by breastfeeding women, so I stuck to a diet and drank Borjomi.

No-shpa was prescribed as a pain reliever. All this time I felt disgusting, experienced colic, nausea, heaviness in my side and pain. When I stopped feeding, I went for an ultrasound. They said that from my 0.2 cm stones, they turned into 0.6 cm stones.

The doctor prescribed Ursofalk 2 capsules at night. After 3 months, I underwent a re-examination, which showed that my stones began to dissolve. I’ve been taking the drug for a year now, and I hope that the next diagnosis will show a positive result.”

Vera Olegovna: “I was registered with my illness and regularly donated blood. The drug Phosphogliv was prescribed to me by my attending physician. I can’t say that it somehow protected my liver and improved my condition. It happened that I did not take hepatoprotectors for years, and sometimes I drank it regularly. I didn't notice any difference.

Each time I used them I felt sick and, interestingly, I got a runny nose. When the diagnosis was finally removed and the main treatment stopped, the liver tests returned to normal. This was not associated with hepatoprotectors. As soon as I stopped taking the medications, everything returned to normal. I consider these drugs to be a simple money grab.”

Today there are a huge number of hepatoprotectors. Attitudes towards them vary among both patients and doctors. Experts consider the most effective of them to be Heptral, Hofitol, Essentiale, Ursosan, Karsil, Silimar and recommend taking them for any liver dysfunction.

But, despite the popularity and apparent safety of these drugs, treatment should not be started without consulting a specialist. Each medication has its own indications and contraindications. With an illiterate approach and non-compliance with recommendations, you can aggravate your condition and cause irreparable harm to your health.

Hepatoprotectors are a group of drugs whose action is aimed at stimulating liver cells, restoring the structure of the organ and normalizing its functions. In addition, hepatoprotectors protect the liver from the effects of toxic substances, bacteria, infections, viruses, fungi, etc.

The name hepatoprotectors itself comes from the Latin hepar - liver and protecto - protection. In this article we will look at the pros and cons of taking hepatoprotectors, as well as how effective treatment with these drugs is.

The liver is considered the most unique and multifunctional organ. Moreover, unlike the cells of the peripheral and central nervous system, which are not capable of recovery, liver cells have the ability to regenerate after being damaged by harmful and toxic substances, even without taking restorative medications.

- This is the largest organ, weighing 1.4 kg. The organ reaches full development at the age of 15, and the beginning of development is noted at 3 weeks of the embryonic period.

Attention. The liver is a unique organ that performs more than 500 vital functions in the body.

Main functions of the liver:

• participates in metabolic processes;
• provides protection to the body from the effects of toxic and other harmful substances;
• synthesizes hormones;
• breaks down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats that enter the body;
• participates in the process of hematopoiesis;
• provides immunological protection.

Often a person is bothered by pain in the area of ​​the right hypochondrium, which he mistakes for problems with the liver, however, we note that the organ does not have nerve endings and, accordingly, is not capable of causing pain. Pain may be associated with a change in the size of the liver, when it begins to put pressure on neighboring organs, causing an inflammatory process.

This phenomenon can be caused by the following pathologies:

• steatohepatitis;
• inflammation of the head of the pancreas;

Only a doctor can determine the cause of the pain after a series of studies.

Hepatoprotectors – what are they?

Hepatoprotectors are a group of medications whose action is aimed at restoring liver cells and its lost functions, they prevent the negative effects of toxins, and improve the performance of the organ. This group of drugs is divided by type of origin into artificial and natural.

Hepatoprotectors are prescribed, as a rule, for the diagnosis of Hepatitis C; they serve as an addition to the main drug therapy. They are not able to have antiviral and antibacterial effects, but at the same time they have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the liver.

In addition, hepatoprotectors are prescribed in case of harmful effects on the body of such factors:

• smoking;
• excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
• contact with chemicals;
• long-term use of medications;
• environmental features;
• unhealthy diet, etc.

The choice of hepatoprotectors is quite extensive, but you should not self-medicate or independently replace one drug with another. Only the attending physician, taking into account the characteristics of the body and the diagnosis, is obliged to prescribe the drug and calculate the dosage.

Note. In the main Anatomical-therapeutic-chemical classification there is no such term as hepatoprotectors. Many well-known drugs provide liver protection and restore damaged cells, but all of them belong to other groups in the classifier.

Hepatoprotectors cannot completely restore the functionality and performance of the liver if the organ continues to be negatively affected, for example, smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, etc. In such situations, the risk of developing toxic hepatitis remains.

Properties and mechanism of action

Pharmacologists have developed various types of hepatoprotectors; they are classified according to their principle of action and composition. This group of drugs can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor, but it should be understood that they are not able to fully protect the body.

Indications

Hepatoprotectors are prescribed not only as part of the main therapy, their use is also preventive.

The drugs have a wide range of indications:

• used by people constantly interacting with radioactive, chemical and toxic substances;
• prescribed to elderly people when, due to natural age-related reasons, the liver loses its functional abilities;
• hepatoprotectors can prevent the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and biliary tract.

The advisability of taking hepatoprotectors is determined only by a doctor after a series of diagnostic measures.

Mechanism of action

The liver normally performs its functions only when the cell membrane is intact. When it is damaged, organ dysfunction occurs, in which case the doctor decides to take hepatoprotectors.

Their action is as follows:

• acceleration of the movement of substances;
• strengthening barrier function;
• improvement of cell nutrition;
• normalization of the process of cell division;
• improvement of liver biochemical parameters.

Properties of hepatoprotectors

In the medical classification, there is a variety of hepatoprotectors; their list is classified taking into account the mechanism of action and components of drugs. Some of them restore damaged cell membranes much faster, others enhance the cleansing function of the liver.

However, they all have common properties, such as:

1. The main base of drugs is natural substances, components of the body’s natural environment.
2. The effect of the drugs is restoration of liver function, normalization of metabolic processes.
3. Neutralization of toxins and other harmful substances entering the body.
4. Strengthening cell regeneration, ensuring cell resistance to negative effects.

For what diseases are they prescribed?

Hepatoprotectors must be prescribed by the attending physician based on complaints, diagnostic results and the course of the disease.

Table No. 1. Diseases for which a decision is made on the advisability of taking hepatoprotectors:

Note that hepatoprotectors will have an effective therapeutic effect only if important rules are observed:

• refusal to drink alcoholic beverages;
• adherence to a specially designed diet (table No. 5);
• adequate and timely treatment of liver diseases.

Countries that widely practice treatment with hepatoprotectors

The group of hepatoprotectors is widely used in Russia and some CIS countries, but there is no list of these drugs in America and Europe.

Attention. Hepatoprotectors are not included in the main list of drugs for liver treatment, since their effectiveness has not been proven by scientists. Many countries use them as dietary supplements.

One of the main manufacturers of these drugs is the French company Sanofi. The bulk of production is sent to the CIS countries, where there is a wide demand for hepatoprotectors.

Considering the characteristics of hepatoprotectors, it is difficult to determine their effectiveness; in general, it is based on opinions from various sources and custom studies. The final decision on the appropriateness and effectiveness of taking this group of drugs is made by the doctor.

General principles of treatment of liver diseases

The general principles of treatment of liver diseases are based on the following approaches:

1. Etiotropic therapy. The goal is to eliminate the cause of the pathology.
2. Pathogenetic therapy. The goal is to influence multiple mechanisms of the disease process in the body.

In the treatment of liver diseases, drugs of various pharmacological groups are prescribed.

This:

• amino acids and vitamins that help normalize metabolic processes;
• medicines that enhance the detoxification properties of the organ;
• drugs aimed at activating the synthesis and excretion of bile;
• group of antiviral drugs;
• agents that stimulate the body's immune defense;
• anti-inflammatory drugs that prevent further development of the inflammatory process;
• painkillers that help eliminate and suppress various pain sensations;
• antioxidants, the action of which is aimed at suppressing the process of destruction of liver cells (binds free radicals);
• hepatoprotectors are prescribed depending on their mechanism of action, structure, and origin.

Classification

We have already mentioned that according to clinical studies, the effectiveness of hepatoprotectors has not been confirmed, but despite this, in Russia and the CIS countries they are widely used in the treatment of various liver pathologies.

Therefore, in these countries it is customary to conditionally classify this group of drugs according to the following criteria:

• Origin:
  1. vegetable;
  2. synthetic.
• Chemical composition:
  1. essential phospholipids;
  2. vitamins/antioxidants;
  3. amino acids.
• Mechanism of action:
  1. antioxidants;
  2. choleretic agents.

Table No. 2. Review of hepatoprotectors depending on the conditional classification:

Attention. Research in 2003 by US scientists proved that taking essential phospholipids for viral hepatitis activates the inflammatory process in the liver and leads to stagnation of bile.

Despite the unproven effectiveness of hepatoprotectors, scientists have come to a common opinion about what kind of drug should be prescribed in combination with the main treatment.

The following requirements apply to him:

• bioavailability;
• high ability to bind free radicals and toxic substances;
• anti-inflammatory effect;
• activation of the process of cell regeneration and restoration of liver functions;
• high degree of security.

Unfortunately, it should be noted that among the many different hepatoprotectors, none of them meets all the requirements. Modern medicine claims that medicines that activate the regeneration process simply do not exist.

As we know, the liver is a unique organ capable of self-healing, and for this it is enough to simply eliminate all negative effects, that is, give up alcohol, antibiotics, low-quality and junk food.

Review of hepatoprotectors

Let's take a closer look at the review of hepatoprotectors of various classes, determine the pros and cons of treating liver pathologies using this group of drugs.

Essential phospholipids

The effectiveness of this class of hepatoprotectors is confirmed by numerous reviews from patients and doctors.

Table No. 3. Review of some drugs from the class of essential phospholipids:

Important. It is a mistake to believe that essential phospholipids are capable of actively restoring the damaged cell membrane; they only improve cell walls.

Contraindications to taking essential phospholipids are acute forms of hepatitis.

Pharmacological properties of this class of hepatoprotectors:

• participation in the transport of fats and cholesterol;
• improvement of blood clotting;
• dissolution of hydrophobic substances.

Table No. 4. Pros and cons of essential phospholipids.

Hepatoprotectors of animal origin

Among hepatoprotectors of animal origin, the following are most effective:

1. Sirepar. Price from 400 rubles per package.
2. Hepotosan. Price from 350 rubles per package.

Indications for prescribing medications:

• cirrhosis;
• hepatitis;
• hepatosis.

Active substances of this class of hepatoprotectors:

• pork liver components;
• amino acids;
• cyanocobalamin;
• low molecular weight metabolites.

Table No. 5. Pros and cons of hepatoprotectors of animal origin.

In pharmacology, there are also such hepatoprotectors of animal origin:

1. Prohepar.
2. Hepatamine.

Amino acids

Hepatoprotectors of the amino acid class are divided into 2 types:

1. Preparations with ademetionine: Heptral, Heptor. The amino acid contained in the composition takes part in the synthesis of phospholipids; the drug has regenerating and detoxifying properties. Prescribed for fatty hepatosis, withdrawal syndrome and chronic hepatitis. Research shows that amino acids effectively cope with medicinal and toxic effects on the liver, as well as viral hepatitis.
2. Preparations with ornitol aspartate: Hepa-Merz. Taking the drug helps reduce the concentration of ammonia in the blood and normalizes the functioning of the liver. Prescribed for toxic hepatitis, fatty degeneration. This drug is not used as a prophylaxis, since its price is quite high. The effectiveness of the drug was proven through a randomized study of patients diagnosed with cirrhosis, as well as those with a high concentration of ammonia in the blood.

A drug such as Geeptral has proven its effectiveness only in Russia, Italy and Germany. In other countries, it is prescribed as a dietary supplement, which has questionable clinical properties.

According to the results of Russian studies, Heptral is effective only in injection form; tablets of the drug are not prescribed for severe forms of liver disease.

Table No. 6. Pros and cons of hepatoprotectors of the amino acid class.

Homeopathic remedies and dietary supplements

The list of effective means of this class includes:

Table No. 7. Review of hepatoprotectors of the class dietary supplements and homeopathy.

The drug Liv-52 is also used for the prevention of drug-induced hepatitis.

Interesting. Russian studies showed that when taking Liv-52, patients experienced a decrease in bilirubin levels and weight loss, but the duration of treatment did not change. And when treating acute hepatitis, patients experienced a worsening of the disease.

Hepatoprotectors of bile acids

The list of hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness is as follows:

• Ursofalk.
• Ursosan.

• Exohol.
• Choludexan.

• Urdoxa.

The active substance of the above group of drugs is ursodeoxycholic acid. Indications for use: cholelithiasis.

The dose of the drug is calculated by the attending physician, based on the characteristics of the body and the severity of the disease. The daily dose can range from 2 to 7 capsules. The duration of treatment with hepatoprotectors of the bile acid class is from 10 days to 2 years.

Vitamins

A deficiency of vitamins in the body can lead to a condition such as polyhypovitaminosis.

For example:

1. With a deficiency of vitamin E in the body, the process of fat absorption is disrupted, and there is a likelihood of developing fatty degeneration.
2. With vitamin A deficiency, glycogen synthesis fails. This condition threatens to impair the flow of bile.

With any disease, vitamin deficiency develops in one form or another in the body, and this condition, in turn, requires replenishment of lost components. Consequently, as part of any complex treatment, the doctor prescribes a course of vitamin therapy.

One of the most important vitamins for the liver is vitamin E. Thanks to it, the organ is able to maintain the integrity of the cell membrane and maintain normal hormonal levels. Vitamin C helps strengthen the liver's resistance to various infectious factors and has an antitoxic effect. Vitamin A promotes glycogen deposition.

Both deficiency and excess of vitamins pose a danger to the body. Therefore, excessive concentration of a particular vitamin in the body contributes to the emergence of the following pathological mechanisms:

• disruption of the microflora of the mucous membranes of the urinary system;
• formation of stones in the liver and renal pelvis;
• dry skin;
• hair loss.

Vitamin therapy is prescribed by the attending physician, taking into account the characteristics of the disease and the results of the study.

Hepatoprotectors for children

When treating liver diseases, doctors try to avoid taking hepatoprotectors. However, in severe forms of the disease, a decision may be made on the advisability of taking drugs from this group.

Table No. 8. Review of hepatoprotectors prescribed in complex therapy for children.

Any drug for the treatment of the liver is prescribed by the attending physician after a series of diagnostic measures. Self-medication can lead to irreparable consequences.

If side symptoms appear, you should stop taking the drug and discuss this issue with your doctor.

Disappointing conclusions

To summarize the article, we note that in European countries, Australia, and New Zealand, drugs from the hepatoprotector group are not registered; they are not prescribed as part of the treatment of liver pathologies. Some classes of drugs, such as thioctic acid and phospholipids, are considered dietary supplements and therefore do not require extensive research and testing.

The RAMS Committee, headed by P.A. Vorobyov, included all these drugs in the list of drugs with unproven effectiveness. But at the same time, in Russia this group is the most popular.

In general, hepatoprotectors have proven themselves to be safe and mild medicines. But, nevertheless, it is recommended to refrain from using them on your own and follow exclusively the recommendations of your doctor, since any medicine can have side effects.

The video in this article will tell readers about the positive and negative sides of hepatoprotectors.

Hepatoprotectors are very popular drugs that are used to treat and protect the liver from harmful factors. Their popularity is due to the increasing number of patients who have various diseases of this organ - primarily viral hepatitis. Also, dietary disturbances, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, and the effects of medications play an important role in the occurrence of liver pathologies.

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What are hepatoprotectors

Hepatoprotectors are medications that help restore and maintain basic liver functions. Also, such drugs help protect hepatocytes from harmful factors.
As a rule, such drugs are prescribed for various liver pathologies, in particular for viral infections. In addition, indications for the use of hepatoprotectors are liver intoxication and destruction of organ cells due to excessive consumption of alcohol and other harmful substances. Also, such problems are often caused by impaired synthesis of proteins and other important elements, insufficient production of bile and other factors.

It is important to take into account that not all hepatoprotectors have undergone clinical trials and confirmed their effectiveness. However, there are quite a few medications that can help cope with the underlying problems. Drugs for the treatment of liver disorders should be selected exclusively by a doctor.

Properties of hepatoprotectors

Any hepatoprotector is based on natural components and components of the body’s natural environment. Such drugs help solve the following problems:

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1. Restore liver function and normalize metabolic processes occurring in the body.
2. They help neutralize toxic substances that come from outside and form inside. This can occur with liver disease or metabolic disorders.
3. Accelerate the regeneration of hepatocytes and increase their resistance to negative factors.

In what cases are hepatoprotectors required?

Modern pharmacology offers quite a few types of hepatoprotectors, each of which is characterized by certain properties. The classification of drugs is based on the active ingredients. Typically, such drugs are prescribed in the following situations:

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Essential phospholipids

Phospholipids are an integral part of hepatocytes, therefore drugs from this category can achieve excellent results in the fight against liver pathologies. The mechanism of action of such drugs allows you to restore damaged liver cells, accelerate their recovery, and activate fermentation.
Thanks to the use of such hepatoprotectors, the production of proteins is stabilized and the filtration capabilities of the liver are normalized. In addition, taking phospholipids is a reliable prevention of the formation of connective tissue in the organ.
The greatest activity of drugs can be achieved in pathologies such as alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, toxic effects of drugs and fatty liver. Such drugs are well tolerated by patients. The only limitation to their use is individual intolerance.

The most well-known medicines offered by modern pharmacology include the following:

1. Essentiale. This product contains phospholipids, which are extracted from soybeans. With the help of this medicine it is possible to restore hepatocytes, normalize cholesterol and lipid metabolism, and improve protein production. The mechanism of action of this substance prevents the development of connective tissue.
   The medicine contains mainly natural ingredients and is therefore well tolerated by patients. It can be safely given to children over 3 years old. With the help of this substance you can improve fermentation and prevent the development of cholelithiasis.
2. Essliver. This medicine, in addition to phospholipids, contains B vitamins.
3. Phosphonziale. This substance contains components such as silymar and lipoid C100.
4. Phosphogliv. This is a combination remedy that is used as part of a complex treatment for viral liver damage. It also takes part in the formation of immunity. Due to the presence of glycirate in its composition, the synthesis of interferon and lymphocytes is improved.
   The use of this hepatoprotector is justified in the development of viral hepatitis, toxic organ damage, and hepatosis. The product is well tolerated and has almost no contraindications.

Natural-based medications

This category of medicines contains exclusively natural ingredients. Therefore, such drugs have a minimum number of contraindications and are well tolerated by patients. They are often prescribed to young children. The only exception is the presence of individual intolerance to such drugs.
Natural hepatoprotectors fall into two main categories. Thus, the classification includes products of plant and animal origin. Among plants, the most famous product that has a hepatoprotective effect is milk thistle. Various medicines have been created from it that help restore liver function.
Also, other herbs that are included in the medicines have a positive effect on the functioning of this organ. These include dandelion, cassia, celandine, artichoke, etc. In addition to their positive effect on the liver, such plants have a good effect on the functioning of the gallbladder and prevent the development of gallstone disease.
The most well-known hepatoprotectors of plant origin include the following:

Hepatoprotectors of animal origin are made on the basis of liver extracts of cattle or pigs. Such drugs are actively used for acute or chronic liver failure, poisoning, drug and alcohol damage to the organ.
The most popular substances in this category include the following:

1. Hepatosan - includes pig liver extracts.
2. Sirepar – contains vitamin B12 in the form of liver extract.
3. Hepatamine - includes proteins and nucleoproteins that are obtained from the liver of cattle.

Ursodeoxycholic acid preparations

Ursodeoxycholic acid is a natural ingredient in Himalayan bear bile. Unlike human acids, it is not considered toxic. With the help of this substance it is possible to improve solubility and stimulate the excretion of bile in humans.
In addition, the drug binds human chenodeoxycholic acid, which provokes damage to hepatocytes, copes with the death of liver cells in various diseases and produces an immunomodulatory effect.
These features make it possible to use this category of hepatoprotectors for the treatment of cholestasis of various origins. It may be associated with fatty liver disease, cholelithiasis, pregnancy, alcoholic liver damage, etc.
Modern pharmacology offers the following drugs from this category:

• ursodesis;
• ursosan;
• ursofalk;
• ursodex.

It is important to take into account contraindications to the use of such hepatoprotectors. These include the following:

• acute inflammatory lesion of the gallbladder;
• acute peptic ulcer of the duodenum or stomach;
• decompensated stage of cirrhosis;
• severe forms of kidney and liver failure;
• calcium stones in the gall bladder;
• pancreatitis.

It is also important to consider that drugs based on ursodeoxycholic acid have certain side effects. The main ones are discomfort in the abdomen and unformed stool.

Amino acid derivatives

Medicines in this category contain amino acids. They are components of proteins and other important elements. These substances are directly involved in the metabolic processes of proteins, hormones, and phospholipids. Thanks to their use, it is possible to provide support to the body and achieve a detoxification effect. These medications are important for complex forms of liver failure and intoxication of the body.
Similar hepatoprotectors include the following medications:

• heptor;
• heptral;
• remaxol;
• hepasol A.

These medications are produced for internal use and intravenous administration. Since they all have different compositions, contraindications may differ slightly. General limitations include individual intolerance and severe renal failure. Common side effects are abdominal discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea.

Hepatoprotective vitamins

The main vitamins that are important for the liver are vitamins B, E, C. Lipoic acid is of great importance for the full functioning of this organ. This component helps neutralize toxic substances in the body.
With the help of such hepatoprotectors, it is possible to restore the metabolism of proteins and fats. They are used for the complex treatment of hepatitis of various origins and liver cirrhosis.

Homeopathic remedies

The most effective hepatoprotectors from this group include galstena and hepel. It is important to take into account that long-term use of such medications and careful monitoring by a homeopathic physician will help to obtain the desired result. Such substances can be given to young children.
Single-dose medications are also highly effective in helping to cope with the symptoms of liver disease and support the body.
It is important to understand that such drugs have not undergone clinical trials and therefore have unproven effectiveness.

Features of the use of hepatoprotectors for children

To cope with liver disorders and prevent negative health consequences, you need to know which hepatoprotectors can be given to children. Modern pharmacology offers safe substances that will not harm the child’s body:

1. It is permissible to give galsten or hepel to newborn children.
2. Essentiale medicine is perfect for children under 3 years of age.
3. Children under 4 years of age are often prescribed antral.
4. For a child over 5 years old, the doctor may prescribe Ursosan or Hepabene.
5. After 12 years you can take Cholenzym.
6. After 18 years, heptral is allowed.

Hepatoprotectors for the liver belong to the category of important medicinal substances that normalize the functioning of this organ. However, doctors categorically do not recommend self-medication, especially when it comes to young children. In any case, the appearance of liver problems should be a reason for a visit to a specialist.

Hepatoprotectors are drugs prescribed mainly to older patients. Due to age-related characteristics and deterioration of digestive function, people develop polyhypovitaminosis. This affects the metabolism in the body and triggers an accelerated aging process. The main goal of hepatoprotectors is to prolong a person’s youth and life. There are about 200 varieties of the drug, each of which has its own indications and contraindications for use.

Indications for taking hepatoprotectors

Drugs are prescribed in the following cases:

1. With alcohol, threatening to turn into the liver. For effective treatment, the patient also needs to stop drinking alcohol. Only in this case will hepatoprotectors help restore damaged organ cells.
2. For fatty liver. The pathology is more often diagnosed in patients who lead a sedentary lifestyle and suffer from. As with alcohol, one dose of hepatoprotectors will not be enough for complete therapy. It is important to lead an active lifestyle and adhere to proper nutrition.
3. Long-term use of medications that cause liver cell damage. In this case, hepatoprotectors will protect the organ cells from the effects of unfavorable factors.
4. With viral hepatitis that has become chronic. When infected with pathology types A, B, C, the patient is prescribed hepatoprotectors as drug therapy

Due to the fact that the effectiveness of the drugs in the prevention and treatment of liver pathologies has been proven, the drugs were classified into a separate pharmacological group. But even the most modern hepatoprotectors will not bring positive results in therapy if they were prescribed without consulting a doctor.

Type of drugs

Depending on their constituent components, drugs are divided into 6 groups:

• medicines made from animal liver cells;
• amino acid derivatives;
• herbal preparations;
• essential phospholipids;
• medicines based on bile acids;

Important! The type of drugs prescribed depends on the degree of damage to the organ cells and the general health of the patient.

Essential phospholipids

The effectiveness of the drugs in question is confirmed by positive reviews from specialists and patients.

1. Phospholip. The main active ingredient is lecithin. The product is available in capsule form. Prescribed for fatty liver, toxic poisoning of the body and acute symptoms of intoxication in pregnant women. Recommended for use before biliary surgery. In the acute stage of the disease, the drug is taken 2 capsules 3 times a day. In the remission stage of the pathology, drink 1 capsule three times a day. The recommended course of therapy is 3 months.
2. Phosphonziale. The active substances of the drug are silamarin and phospholipids. Available in capsule form. Prescribed for the complex treatment of liver, poisoning, psoriasis, gestosis and problems with lipid metabolism. The dosage regimen depends on the severity of the problem. The course of treatment ranges from 10 days to 3 months.
3. Essel-Forte. The active ingredients of the drug include: nicotinamide, phospholipids, B vitamins, vitamin E. It is used for pathologies of the liver and bile ducts. Take 2 capsules 3 times a day. A side effect of taking the medication is stool upset.
4. Essentiale N. The active component is phospholipids from soybeans. Available in the form of liquid for injection and capsules. It is prescribed for liver cell damage of a viral or toxic nature, as well as for the prevention of biliary tract disease. The drug is taken 2 capsules three times a day. For injections, the daily dose is 2 capsules for mild and moderate forms of the disease and up to 4 ampoules for severe forms of the pathology.

Important! In acute forms of hepatitis, it is better to avoid the use of hepatoprotectors with phospholipids

Products of animal origin

Among hepatoprotectors with proven clinical effectiveness, 2 types of drugs are prescribed: Sirepar and Gepotosan. The products are intended for the treatment of liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis or fatty liver disease) and are not suitable for use for preventive purposes. The active ingredients of the drugs are components of pork liver. In addition, hepatoprotectors of animal origin include amino acids, cyanocobalamin, and low molecular weight metabolites.

Among the positive aspects of medications are:

• their ability to remove toxins from the body;
• the possibility of complete restoration of liver tissue;
• restoration of organ functionality;

The disadvantages of the drugs include:

• unproven clinical safety of the drugs;
• high risk of developing allergic reactions;
• the risk of developing an immunopathological syndrome during the treatment of acute forms of hepatitis.

The price for Sirepar varies from 400 rubles, for Gepotosan - from 350 rubles.

You should know! There are other hepatoprotectors of animal origin - Progepar and Hepatamine, which improve blood flow in the liver and inhibit the formation of connective tissue in the organ. But their use is inappropriate, since there is no data confirming their effectiveness.

Amino acids

Hepatoprotectors with amino acids are divided into two groups of drugs.

1. Products containing ademetionine – Heptor and Heptral. The amino acid is involved in the production of phospholipids, and also has a detoxifying and regenerating effect. Drugs in this group are used to combat fatty hepatosis, chronic forms of hepatitis and withdrawal syndrome. Conducted clinical studies indicate the effectiveness of the drugs against drug-induced and toxic liver damage, cholestatic problems and viral hepatitis.

The drug Heptral is considered a hepatoprotector with proven effectiveness only in Russia, Germany and Italy. In other countries it is considered as a dietary supplement with questionable clinical effects. Experts note the effectiveness of the drug only when taken intravenously. Heptral in tablet form is not prescribed for severe forms of liver damage.

1. Products with ornitha aspartate, for example, Hepa-merz. The amino acid reduces the level of ammonia in the body and is prescribed to maintain liver function in case of fatty degeneration and hepatitis of a toxic nature. Hepa-Merz is not used for the prevention of liver diseases due to its high price. Evidence of the effectiveness of the drug was obtained from a randomized study of patients suffering from cirrhosis of the liver and elevated levels of ammonia in the body.

Dietary supplements or homeopathic medicines

The list of drugs with proven effectiveness includes:

1. Galstena with active plant components - milk thistle, medicinal dandelion and celandine. The drug also contains phosphorus and sodium sulfate. Prescribed for the treatment of liver pathologies occurring in acute and chronic forms, in case of malfunction of the gallbladder, chronic.

The medicine is taken after meals or 1 hour before meals. Children under one year old are prescribed ½ tablet 3 times a day, children 1-12 years old - ½ tablet (or 5 drops of the drug), children over 12 years old and adults - 1 tablet. In severe forms of the disease, the frequency of taking the drug is increased to 8 times a day.

1. Hepel. The medicine contains spotted milk thistle, components of the quinn tree, celandine, nutmeg, phosphorus and colocynth. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, choleretic and antidiarrheal properties. Prescribed to patients suffering from appetite disorders, eczema, acne on the body, as well as toxic and inflammatory liver diseases. Hepel is taken three times a day, one tablet. In severe forms of pathology, patients are administered 1 ampoule of the drug intramuscularly.

Bile acid drugs

Ursofalk, Ursosan– hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness; drugs can also be added to the list Exchol, Choludexan, Urdoxa. The active ingredient of the drug is ursodeoxycholic acid. Recommended for patients with gallstones.

The dosage of the drug depends on the physiological characteristics of the patient and the severity of the pathology and can range from 2-7 capsules per day. The course of therapy with drugs containing bile acids is from 10 days to 2 years.

Herbal preparations

The list of hepatoprotectors of plant origin with proven effectiveness includes:

1. Gepabene. The medicine contains fume extract and milk thistle fruits. The drug has a choleretic effect and stimulates the liver in case of poisoning. Take 1 capsule three times a day.

2. with bearberry fruit extract. Available in tablet and dragee form. Prescribed for the treatment of toxic organ damage and for the prevention of liver diseases, normalizes lipid metabolism in the body. Suitable for complex treatment of liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty hepatosis.

3. Hofitol. Accelerates the production of bile, thereby preventing its stagnation in the biliary tract. Prescribed for renal and liver failure, chronic hepatitis and, as well as for poisoning with toxic substances. Adults are prescribed 2 tablets 3 times a day, children 6-11 years old - 1 tablet. Children under 6 years of age are prescribed the drug in drops (10 drops 2 times a day).

You should know! Contraindications to taking hepatoprotectors are: kidney disease in the acute stage, bile duct obstruction, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, pregnancy, lactation, acute liver disease.

List of new generation hepatoprotectors

1. Hepatosan.

2. Sirepar.

3. Hepa-Merz

List of the best hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness

1. Heptral– average cost 1600 rubles;
2. Hofitol– average price from 400 rubles;
3. Essentiale N– the cost of the medicine is 700 rubles;
4. Ursosan– drug price from 200 rubles;
5. Karsil– average cost 350 rubles;
6. Silimar– cost from 100 rubles.

Important! Hepatoprotectors have different properties and composition, so they should be prescribed by a specialist taking into account the characteristics of the disease.

Hepatoprotectors with proven effectiveness are prescribed as complex therapy for liver and biliary tract diseases. Depending on their composition, drugs are divided into 6 groups. When choosing a specific drug, you need to pay attention to the pharmacological group of the drug, the age of the patient and the country of manufacture (Russian drugs are cheaper than imported ones, but are not inferior to them in effectiveness).