Ursodeoxycholic Acid: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Ursodeoxycholic Acid

Rx

Generic NameUrsodeoxycholic Acid

Therapeutic ClassBile acid

Max / 24h20 mg/kg/day

Common Dose10–15 mg/kg/day in divided doses

PregnancyUse only if benefit outweighs risk

Indications ▼

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)

Dissolution of non-calcified cholesterol gallstones in patients unsuitable for surgery

Cholestatic liver diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis-associated liver disease, drug-induced cholestasis)

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Reduces cholesterol absorption and bile acid toxicity; protects hepatocytes, stimulates bile flow, and decreases cholestasis.

Pharmacokinetics: Well absorbed orally, peak plasma levels 1–3 hours; metabolized in liver; excreted mainly in bile; half-life ~3.5–5.8 hours.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Condition	Recommended Dose	Frequency
Primary biliary cholangitis	13–15 mg/kg/day	Divided into 2–3 oral doses
Cholesterol gallstones	8–10 mg/kg/day	Divided doses, continue for months until stone dissolution
Other cholestatic liver diseases	10–15 mg/kg/day	Divided into 2–3 doses

Note: Administer with food to improve absorption; dose adjustment may be needed for hepatic impairment.

Side Effects ▼

Diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, nausea

Flatulence

Rash or pruritus

Rare: Hepatotoxicity, allergic reactions

Contraindications ▼

Complete biliary obstruction

Hypersensitivity to Ursodeoxycholic Acid

Pregnancy unless benefit outweighs risk

Drug Interaction ▼

Cholestyramine or colestipol: may reduce absorption

Cyclosporine: may increase cyclosporine levels

Other bile acids: additive effects possible

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Use only if benefit outweighs risk

Excretion in breast milk unknown; caution advised

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Therapeutic Role: Improves bile flow, reduces liver enzyme levels, and slows progression of cholestatic liver diseases.

Clinical Effectiveness: Effective in dissolving non-calcified gallstones and improving liver function in PBC; long-term therapy required.

Safety Profile: Well tolerated; diarrhea is most common adverse effect; monitor liver function periodically.

Current Research: Investigating use in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and pediatric cholestatic conditions.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take with food to improve absorption

Do not discontinue therapy prematurely; dissolution of gallstones may take months

Report persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or jaundice

Regular monitoring of liver function tests recommended

Maintain adequate hydration during therapy

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C, protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

Ursotab® Ursocol® Ursolic® Ursodex® Antigall® Bilicir® Dexochol® Oxycol® Pritli® Stener® Surliv® UDCA® Udihep® Uliv® Ursoren® Ursoton®

Global / International Brands:

Actigall Ursofalk

Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and must not replace professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Bile acids • Conditions: Primary Biliary Cholangitis • Conditions: Gallstones