Ursodiol is a bile acid tablet that reduces cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the intestines. It helps remove cholesterol that has formed into stones in the gallbladder and improves bile flow in patients with early biliary cirrhosis.
Uses of Ursodiol
Gallstones: Ursodiol is used to dissolve gallstones in people who do not want surgery. It also prevents gallstones in overweight individuals who are losing weight rapidly.
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: It treats patients with primary biliary cirrhosis by reducing toxic bile acid levels.
Ursodiol Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Diarrhea
Constipation
Nausea
Indigestion
Dizziness
Headache
Vomiting
Cough
Fever
Sore throat
Back pain
Muscle pain
Joint swelling
Pain
Stiffness
Hair loss
H3: Serious Side Effects:
Severe allergic reactions such as rash, itching, and trouble breathing (rare).
Precautions
Before taking Ursodiol, discuss with your doctor if you have any allergies or medical history, including:
Liver disease
Ascites
Variceal bleeding
Hepatic encephalopathy
How To Take Ursodiol
Form: Capsules and tablets
Dosage:
To treat gallstones: 2 or 3 times a day with or without food.
To prevent gallstones in rapid weight loss: Twice a day.
To treat primary biliary cirrhosis: 2 to 4 times a day with food.
Follow prescription labels carefully and avoid taking in incorrect amounts.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with the next dose at the regular time. Do not double up on doses.
Overdose
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention to avoid harmful effects.
Drug Interactions
Discuss with your doctor if you are taking:
Aluminum-containing antacids
Birth control pills
Cholesterol medications
Estrogen
Storage
Store at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF or 20ºC to 25ºC).
Keep away from heat, air, and light.
Keep out of reach of children.
Ursodiol vs. Udiliv
Ursodiol
Udiliv
Reduces cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the intestines.
Used to dissolve gallstones and treat primary biliary cirrhosis.
Used for dissolving gallstones in people who do not want surgery.
Dissolves cholesterol gallbladder stones and treats liver-related disorders such as cirrhosis and sclerosing cholangitis.
Common Side Effects: Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, indigestion, dizziness, headache.
Common Side Effects: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, hair loss, itching, nausea, rash.
