Metadoxil: what is a detoxification drug?
August 23, 2024
What is Metadoxil?
Metadoxil (Metadoxine) is a medication designed to support and protect liver health, especially in those who consume alcohol regularly. Originally developed in Italy for treating adolescent alcoholism, it is now widely used in adults. The active ingredient, metadoxine, is a potent form of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). It aids in detoxifying the body by accelerating the removal of alcohol and its byproducts and, with long-term use, enhances liver cell resistance to toxins. You can read more about B vitamins peptides here.
Benefits and Effects
Liver Protection: Metadoxine can protect liver cells from damage and act as a hepatoprotector by neutralizing the effects of alcohol on the liver.
Detoxification: It enhances the body’s detoxification process by increasing enzyme production that breaks down toxins, leading to faster excretion of alcohol and acetaldehyde.
Craving Reduction and Cirrhosis Prevention: It may reduce alcohol cravings and slow cirrhosis development by accelerating the removal of substances that contribute to liver fibrosis.
Hangover Relief: Metadoxine can speed up hangover recovery and alleviate symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness.
Improved Mental Functions: It may enhance memory, cognitive function, and reduce anxiety and hand tremors, acting as an antidepressant.
Possible Side Effects
Metadoxine may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. In particular, patients with bronchial asthma may experience bronchospasm when using the injectable form of the drug. The injectable solution contains sodium metabisulfite, which can also provoke allergic reactions or worsen asthma symptoms, especially in those with a history of asthma.
Additionally, caution is advised when prescribing Metadoxine to patients with Parkinson’s disease who are concurrently using Levodopa, as Metadoxine may reduce Levodopa’s effectiveness. If side effects occur, it is recommended to discontinue the medication and consider alternative treatments.
Conclusion
Metadoxine can be helpful for liver health and detoxifying the body, but it’s important to be aware of possible side effects and interactions. Before starting therapy, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use.
Bibliography
- Manor I et al (2014). Attention benefits after a single dose of metadoxine extended release in adults with predominantly inattentive ADHD. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25295645
- Higuera-de la Tijera F et al (2015). Metadoxine improves the three- and six-month survival rates in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25945012
- Di Miceli M, Gronier B (2018). Pharmacology, Systematic Review and Recent Clinical Trials of Metadoxine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29485008
- Mazraati P, Minaiyan M (2018). Hepatoprotective Effect of Metadoxine on Acetaminophen-induced Liver Toxicity in Mice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29862216
- Testino G et al (2018). Alcoholic liver fibrosis: detection and treatment. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30221911
- F Nageye, S Cortese (2019) Beyond stimulants: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials assessing novel compounds for ADHD https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31167583/
- Mirijello et al (2022) Identification and management of acute alcohol intoxication https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35985955/
- Liu et al (2022) Current Medical Treatment for Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36038332/