The Effects of Livercare Tablet [Combination of Milk Thistle, Dandelion, Barberry, Tumeric (Curcumin), and Artichoke] in Prevention of Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs-Induced Hepatotoxicity: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Hepatotoxicity is a serious complication of anti-tuberculosis drugs, and so far, no ideal preventive measure has been suggested for it.. The aim of this study was determining the effects of Livercare tablet [combination of milk thistle, dandelion, barberry, turmeric (curcumin), and artichoke] in the prevention of hepatotoxicity induced by anti-tuberculosis drugs. Methods: In a randomized controlled clinical trial study, 44 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis were divided into two groups of 22 patients. In the first group (intervention group), Livercare tablets made by HealthAid Company were prescribed twice a day for 2 weeks at the same time with the start of anti-tuberculosis drugs. In the second group (control group), only standard anti-tuberculosis treatment was prescribed. The incidence of hepatotoxicity was determined and compared between the two groups. Findings: Examination of liver enzyme levels during two weeks from the start of anti-tuberculosis treatment showed that 7 patients (15.9%) had hepatotoxicity, of which 6 (27.3%) were in the control group and 1 (4.5%) in the intervention group. The incidence of hepatotoxicity was significantly lower in the intervention group (P = 0.039). Conclusion: Concomitant use of the herbal drug Livecare seems to reduce the hepatotoxicity of anti-tuberculosis drugs significantly.

Keywords

• anti-tuberculosis drug
• hepatotoxicity
• prevention
• livercare