URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID contains ursodeoxycholic acid, which is a naturally-occurring bile acid. It belongs to a group of medicines called the biliary agent or gall stone dissolution agents used to treat gall stones, primary biliary cholangitis (an autoimmune disease of the liver), excess cholesterol in bile children above 6 years with biliary and liver diseases caused by cystic fibrosis. URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID breaks down the cholesterol that has formed into gall bladder stones, thereby dissolves the stones. URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID has a protective effect on the liver cells and the immune system, thereby improving liver function. URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID decreases the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the intestine. In patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID increases the bile flow.
Take URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID with food. You are advised to take URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you depending on your medical condition. In some cases, you may experience certain common side-effects such as abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, rash, dizziness, indigestion and weakness. Most of these side-effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side-effects persistently.
Inform your doctor before taking URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID if you have variceal bleeding (high blood pressure in portal veins), ascites (excess abdominal fluid), liver encephalopathy or liver disease. Do not take URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless prescribed. URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID can be given to children above 6 years if prescribed by the doctor. Avoid consuming alcohol along with URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID as it could lead to increased drowsiness and liver damage. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medicines to rule out any side-effects.
