Taking milk thistle while on harvoni

[MR 149]

I am on 12th week of Harvoni. I cleared the virus after 4 weeks. Does anyone know if I have to wait to use milk thistle for liver care after I am done with tx or can I start using it now?

[andrew j]

Hi MR 149,

If you look at the packaging notes that came with your meds, you'll see that Milk Thistle is not 'contraindicated' in reln. to Harvoni.
That said - the conventional wisdom is - it's best not to take anything that isn't absolutely necessary, while on Tx.
(These drugs haven't been around for that long, and not a lot is known about them in absolute terms.
You know - 'Better safe than sorry' = Give yourself the best possible chance!) ...

Here in New Zealand the Drs get decidedly towy about people taking supps during Tx.

(I waited for a couple of months before I started taking mine again).

... Looks like you're almost home?! ...

Good luck with the rest of Tx!

A.

[MR 149]

Hi Andrew.
Thanks for reply great advice. I will also wait until treatment is over to resume. I have not taken any suppliments during tx. I have only taken meds I need to take.
5 more days and done with tx  almost home!
Take care be well
Margot

[Lynn K]

If you want to take milk thistle there is not much data saying any efficacy but after treatment if you feel the need go for it.

At worst it won’t harm you.

[untreated]

Hi Guys,

Instead of supplements, you could just drink milk thistle (seeds) tea, you get the benefits without the concentrated dose. Now, I have not been drinking it during treatment as I am Paranoid myself but will resume it after my treatment is complete.

After a while you get used to the taste also.

Dylan