HEPHOR

Silymarin is a plant-derived flavonoid from the plant Silybum marianum. The main component of the silymarin complex is silybin, which is a mixture of two diastereomers A and B in approximately 1:1 proportion. The drug possess hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity. The hepatoprotective effect is due to stimulation of synthesis of structural and functional proteins and phospholipids, as well as acceleration of the regeneration of hepatocytes. Antioxidant effect is determined by interaction of bioflavones with free radicals in the liver and its detoxication. In such manner the process of peroxidation of the lipids is interrupted and further liver destruction is prevented.

Thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), the coenzymatic form of thiamine, is involved in two main types of metabolic reactions: decarboxylation of α-ketoacids (e.g. pyruvate, α-ketoglutarate and branched-chain keto acids) and transketolation (e.g. among hexose and pentose phosphates). Therefore, the principal physiological role of thiamine is as a coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism, where TPP is required for several stages in the breakdown of glucose to provide energy.

Riboflavine is phosphorylated to flavine mononucleotide and flavine adenine dinucleotide which act as co-enzymes in the respiratory chain and in oxidative phosphorylation. Riboflavine deficiency presents with ocular symptoms, as well as lesions on the lips and at angles of the mouth.

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is Vitamin B6. It is converted to pyridoxal phosphate which is the co-enzyme for a variety of metabolic transformations. It is essential for human nutrition.

Hydroxocobalamin is used in the treatment and prevention of Vitamin B12 deficiency. For adults, the daily requirement of Vitamin B12 is probably about 1 to 2 micrograms and this amount is present in most normal diets. However, Vitamin B12 only occurs in animal products, not in vegetables, and therefore strict vegetarian or vegan diets that exclude dairy products may provide an inadequate amount, although a deficiency may not be apparent for many years.