Two Chinese Patent Medicines for Gallstones and Cholecystitis
When gallstones attack, they can cause severe biliary colic, accompanied by complications such as acute icteric hepatitis; severe cases require hospitalization and, when necessary, surgery. Those with mild symptoms can take Chinese patent medicine for treatment. There are two Chinese patent medicines that have a certain effect on relieving the symptoms caused by gallstones.
The first is Lidan Pian (Gallbladder-Benefiting Tablets). Its composition includes Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (Dahuang), Lonicerae Flos (Jinyinhua), Desmodii Herba (Jin Qiancao), Aucklandiae Radix (Muxiang), Anemarrhenae Rhizoma (Zhimu), Isatidis Folium (Daqingye), Bupleuri Radix (Chaihu), Paeoniae Radix Alba (Baishao), Scutellariae Radix (Huangqin), Natrii Sulfas (Mangxiao), and Artemisiae Scopariae Herba (Yinchen).
Lidan Pian has the effects of soothing the liver and relieving pain, clearing heat and draining dampness. It is indicated for hypochondriac pain due to liver-gallbladder damp-heat, presenting as pain in the hypochondrium and stomach/abdomen that worsens on pressure, constipation, scanty dark urine, fever and headache, vomiting with inability to eat. It can treat cholecystitis and gallstones presenting with the above symptoms.
The second is Lidan Paishi Pian (Keli) (Gallbladder-Benefiting Stone-Expelling Tablets/Granules). Its composition includes Desmodii Herba (Jin Qiancao), Artemisiae Scopariae Herba (Yinchen), Aucklandiae Radix (Muxiang), Curcumae Radix (Yujin), Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (Dahuang), Arecae Semen (Binglang), Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (Zhishi, bran-fried), Natrii Sulfas (Mangxiao), Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex (Houpo, ginger-processed), and Scutellariae Radix (Huangqin).
Lidan Paishi Pian has the effects of clearing heat and draining dampness, benefiting the gallbladder and expelling stones. It is indicated for hypochondriac pain and gallbladder distension due to damp-heat accumulating as toxin and obstruction of the fu-organ qi, presenting as distending pain in the hypochondrium, fever, dark urine and constipation. It can treat cholecystitis and gallstones presenting with the above symptoms.
The two Chinese patent medicines above are very close in formula, with similar effects and indications. Both can be regarded as derivatives of Dachaihu Decoction (Major Bupleurum Decoction). Lidan Pian has a better fever-relieving effect than Lidan Paishi Pian, so those with the above symptoms accompanied by fever may use Lidan Pian.
Gallstones are difficult to cure and prone to recurrence. Overindulgence in greasy or spicy food, skipping breakfast, or losing weight too quickly in a short period can all trigger gallstones. Patients should emphasize the combination of medical treatment and self-care; while on medication, they should also maintain healthy lifestyle habits to reduce the probability of recurrence.
Some gallstones and gallbladder polyps are precancerous lesions of gallbladder cancer. If a patient has recurrent attacks and a family history of tumors, it may be necessary to surgically remove the gallbladder to prevent malignant transformation.