Drug Class: Hepatoprotective & Ammonia-Detoxifying Agent | Form: Oral Syrup | Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered
What is Hepa Merz Syrup?
Hepa Merz Syrup contains L-Ornithine L-Aspartate (LOLA), a medicine specifically designed to support and protect the liver (جگر). It works by removing a harmful chemical called ammonia (امونیا) from the blood — a waste product that builds up when the liver is not working properly. When ammonia levels become too high in the blood, it can affect the brain and cause serious complications. Hepa Merz helps the liver process and eliminate this ammonia safely. It is used for a range of liver conditions including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease. Hepa Merz Syrup must only be taken as prescribed by your doctor.
What is Hepa Merz Syrup Used For?
Hepa Merz Syrup is prescribed for the treatment and management of the following conditions:
- Acute Hepatitis — sudden inflammation of the liver caused by infection or other factors (جگر کی شدید سوزش)
- Chronic Hepatitis — long-term liver inflammation that persists over months or years (دائمی ہیپاٹائٹس)
- Liver Cirrhosis — scarring and hardening of the liver due to long-term damage (جگر کا سکڑنا یا سخت ہونا)
- Fatty Liver Disease (Hepatic Steatosis) — abnormal build-up of fat inside liver cells (جگر پر چربی)
- Hyperammonaemia — dangerously high levels of ammonia in the blood caused by liver disease (خون میں امونیا کی زیادتی)
- Hepatic Encephalopathy — brain and nervous system complications caused by ammonia build-up due to liver failure
- Liver Damage from Medicines or Toxins — protecting the liver from damage caused by prolonged medicine use or harmful substances
How Does Hepa Merz Syrup Work?
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate works through two important mechanisms in the body to protect the liver and reduce ammonia levels:
Ammonia Detoxification: The liver normally converts ammonia — a toxic waste product from protein breakdown — into a safe substance called urea, which is then removed from the body through urine. When the liver is damaged, this process breaks down and ammonia builds up in the blood. L-Ornithine and L-Aspartate are both natural amino acids that directly support the liver's urea cycle — the chemical process used to convert ammonia into urea. By supplying these amino acids, Hepa Merz helps restore and speed up ammonia removal from the body.
Liver Cell Protection: L-Ornithine L-Aspartate also supports the repair and regeneration of liver cells (ہیپاٹوسائٹس) that have been damaged by disease, infection, or toxins. It helps reduce inflammation inside the liver and improves the overall function of liver cells, supporting recovery from liver disease.
Dosage and Administration
⚠️ Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribed. The dose will depend on the severity of your liver condition and your ammonia levels. Do not change your dose without consulting your doctor.
| Indication | Usual Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Acute / Chronic Hepatitis | 1 to 2 sachets or measured doses | 2 to 3 times daily after meals |
| Liver Cirrhosis with Hyperammonaemia | 2 sachets or measured doses | 3 times daily after meals |
| Fatty Liver Disease | 1 sachet or measured dose | 2 to 3 times daily after meals |
| Hepatic Encephalopathy | As prescribed by specialist | Doctor will decide dose based on severity |
- Mix each dose in a glass of water or juice before drinking — stir well until fully dissolved
- Always take after meals to reduce the chance of stomach upset
- Take regularly at the same times each day for best results
- Do not skip doses — consistent use is important for liver recovery
- Your doctor will monitor your liver function and ammonia levels regularly during treatment
- Duration of treatment will be decided by your doctor based on your condition and response
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Strength per Dose |
|---|---|
| L-Ornithine | As per formulation (per sachet / 5ml) |
| L-Aspartate | As per formulation (per sachet / 5ml) |
Please check the product label or ask your pharmacist for the exact strength per dose of the specific pack you have been dispensed.
Who Should NOT Use Hepa Merz Syrup?
Do not take this medicine if you:
- Are allergic to L-Ornithine, L-Aspartate, or any other ingredient in the syrup
- Have severe kidney disease or kidney failure (گردے کی شدید بیماری) — ammonia and its metabolites are cleared by the kidneys and this medicine may not be safe
- Have been told by your doctor to avoid this medicine for any reason
Tell your doctor before use if you have:
- Any kidney problems — even mild — as your doctor may need to adjust the dose or monitor you more closely
- Any other ongoing liver condition not mentioned above
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding — your doctor will assess whether this medicine is safe for you
- If you are taking any other medicines for liver disease or ammonia control
- If you are on a protein-restricted diet — your doctor needs to know before prescribing
Side Effects
Like all medicines, Hepa Merz Syrup can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience them. Side effects are generally mild and often improve as the body adjusts to the medicine.
Common Side Effects (relatively frequent):
- Nausea (متلی) — especially if taken on an empty stomach
- Vomiting (قے) — usually mild and temporary
- Stomach discomfort or bloating (پیٹ میں بے آرامی)
- Loose stools or mild diarrhoea (دست)
- Loss of appetite
Serious Side Effects (less common — seek medical help immediately):
- Severe allergic reaction — sudden rash, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing
- Worsening confusion or disorientation (یہ جگر کی بگڑتی ہوئی حالت کی علامت ہو سکتی ہے — فوری ڈاکٹر سے رابطہ کریں)
- Significant worsening of nausea or vomiting that does not improve
- Signs of worsening liver condition — increasing yellowing of skin or eyes (یرقان), extreme fatigue, or abdominal swelling
If you notice any serious side effects, stop taking the medicine and go to the nearest hospital or emergency immediately.
Drug and Food Interactions
Tell your doctor about ALL medicines you are currently taking. Hepa Merz Syrup may interact with:
| Medicine / Substance | Possible Effect |
|---|---|
| Other amino acid supplements or preparations | Combined use should be discussed with your doctor to avoid imbalance |
| Lactulose (ammonia-lowering medicine) | Often used together — your doctor will monitor ammonia levels carefully |
| Rifaximin (antibiotic for liver patients) | Sometimes prescribed together for hepatic encephalopathy — doctor will advise |
| High-protein foods or protein supplements | May affect ammonia levels — your doctor may advise a controlled protein diet |
| Alcohol (شراب) | Must be completely avoided — alcohol directly damages the liver and will worsen your condition |
| Medicines that affect kidney function | May affect how this medicine is cleared from the body — inform your doctor |
Always inform your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, herbal products, or dietary supplements you are taking.
Storage Instructions
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں)
- Do not refrigerate or freeze the syrup unless the label specifically instructs otherwise
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or box
- Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use
- Do not use if you notice any change in colour, smell, or appearance — return it to your pharmacist
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hepa Merz Syrup used for?
Hepa Merz Syrup is used to treat liver disorders including acute and chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease. It works by removing harmful ammonia from the blood, protecting liver cells from further damage, and supporting the recovery of liver function.
What is ammonia and why is it dangerous for liver patients?
Ammonia is a toxic waste product produced when the body breaks down protein from food. In a healthy person, the liver converts ammonia into urea which is safely removed through urine. When the liver is damaged, it cannot do this efficiently and ammonia builds up in the blood. High ammonia levels can affect the brain, causing confusion, drowsiness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness — a condition called hepatic encephalopathy. Hepa Merz helps the liver remove this ammonia more effectively.
How long do I need to take Hepa Merz Syrup?
The duration of treatment depends on your liver condition and how well you respond to the medicine. Some patients take it for a few weeks for acute hepatitis while others with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis may need it for longer periods. Your doctor will review your liver function tests and ammonia levels regularly to decide how long you need to continue.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Hepa Merz Syrup?
No. Alcohol must be completely avoided during treatment with Hepa Merz Syrup. Alcohol is directly toxic to liver cells and will worsen your liver condition, making the medicine less effective and causing further serious damage. This is one of the most important lifestyle changes for any patient with liver disease.
Can Hepa Merz Syrup be taken during pregnancy?
Hepa Merz Syrup should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor clearly decides the benefit outweighs any potential risk. There is limited data on its safety during pregnancy. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting this medicine.
Do I need to follow a special diet while taking Hepa Merz Syrup?
Your doctor may advise a controlled protein diet, especially if your ammonia levels are high, as protein breakdown produces ammonia. However, do not restrict protein on your own without medical advice — liver patients still need adequate nutrition. Follow the dietary guidance given by your doctor or dietitian alongside your Hepa Merz treatment for best results.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This product description is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. This product is a prescription medicine — it must only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional.
DRAP Registered | Prescription Required (Rx) | For use under medical supervision only