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Ursodeoxycholic Acid (Ursodiol)

Uses

Ursodeoxycholic Acid Uses Ursodeoxycholic Acid is used in the treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis and gallstones.

How it Works

How Ursodeoxycholic Acid works Ursodeoxycholic Acid is a hepatoprotective medication. It functions by reducing the amount of cholesterol in the blood and aids in dissolving gallbladder stones that are primarily composed of cholesterol. Additionally, it improves liver enzymes, protects liver cells from injury caused by toxic bile acids, and enhances liver function.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Ursodeoxycholic Acid include abdominal pain, diarrhea, hair loss, itching, nausea, rash, headache, back pain, abdominal discomfort, allergy, chest pain, fatigue, dyspepsia, flatulence, vomiting, joint pain, joint inflammation, muscle pain, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), bronchitis (inflammation of the airways), cough, sinus inflammation, upper respiratory tract infection, and urinary tract infection.

Expert Advice

  • Ursodeoxycholic Acid should be taken after a meal with a glass of milk or water.
  • Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol intake.
  • Diarrhea may occur as a side effect.
  • Drink plenty of fluids and inform your doctor if diarrhea persists or if you notice blood in your stools.
  • Your doctor may monitor your liver function and bilirubin levels every month for the first 3 months after starting therapy, and then every 6 months thereafter.
  • Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

Other Combinations

Silymarin + Ursodeoxycholic Acid (Ursodiol)

Metformin + Ursodeoxycholic Acid (Ursodiol)

Frequently asked questions

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is generally safe and effective, but it may cause side effects like diarrhea. If diarrhea occurs, your doctor may adjust the dose or discontinue treatment if it persists. Long-term use can affect liver enzyme levels, so regular monitoring by your doctor is essential. Despite minor side effects, it can be a viable alternative to surgery for some gallstone patients.
The timing for taking Ursodeoxycholic Acid varies based on your condition. Typically, it is taken 2 to 3 times a day, with the last dose at bedtime. It should be taken with water or milk, either with or after meals. For gallstone dissolution, it is usually taken once daily at night, ideally spaced 6 hours apart, such as 8 am, 2 pm, and 8 pm.
Weight gain is a possible but uncommon side effect of Ursodeoxycholic Acid, particularly in patients with liver disease causing bile stasis. The likelihood of weight gain varies among individuals, so consult your doctor if you notice any changes in weight.
Ursodeoxycholic Acid concentrates in bile, reducing cholesterol synthesis and secretion by the liver, thus lowering cholesterol levels in bile. It also prevents the intestines from absorbing bile salts and cholesterol, leading to the gradual dissolution of cholesterol gallstones. Additionally, it enhances bile flow, reducing elevated liver enzyme levels and protecting liver cells.
Avoid taking antacids without consulting your doctor, as they can reduce the effectiveness of Ursodeoxycholic Acid. Additionally, steer clear of medications like cholestyramine or colestipol, and avoid oral contraceptives, estrogenic hormones, and cholesterol-lowering agents like clofibrate, as these may increase gallstone risk and counteract Ursodeoxycholic Acid's effects.
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