milk thistle and liver cancer

[happymom]

My father was recently diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma brought on by hepatitis C. He contracted the hepatitis C from a heart bypass surgery in 1982. The doctors are going to start a radiation therapy called Therasphere. My question is, is there any indications that milk thistle is contraindicated with the radiation therapy? If we were to start the milk thistle(with his doctors ok), would we start now before the therapy or wait until hes finished? Also, is there any indications that the milk thistle would accelerate the spread of the cancer?
I truly appreciate any information you can give me.
Thank you

[Admin]

There is no research currently that indicates Milk Thistle is contra-indicated with radiation therapy.  We have several physicians that have been using it often in conjunction with radiation therapy.  We have also seen no research indicating that Milk Thistle would spread cancer.  Rather, we have been seeing studies that Milk Thistle actually helps decrease cancer related inflammation.  Talk to your doctor, and keep us informmed as to your father's progress.  Whether he starts now or later is really up to your physician.  Many doctors use Milk Thistle during radiation therapy(and Chemotherapy) as a way to help protect the liver and pancrease while helping facilitate the liver function.

[happymom]

Thank you so much for the reply! I will keep you informed as to my dads condition.