Ursodeoxycholic acid

About ursodeoxycholic acid

Gallstones occur when cholesterol, calcium deposits and bile pigments build up forming stones in the gall bladder or bile ducts (the tubes that lead from the gall bladder into the intestine). These stones can block the bile duct causing pain. Some gallstones consist mainly of cholesterol; these are the type that ursodeoxycholic acid can help to treat. The treatment works by reducing the amount of cholesterol released by the liver into bile and by slowly dispersing the cholesterol, so breaking up the stones.

Some ursodeoxycholic acid preparations can also help to treat primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) which is when bile ducts become inflamed and damaged.

Before taking ursodeoxycholic acid

Before taking ursodeoxycholic acid make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have liver problems.
• If your gall bladder does not function properly.
• If you have a stomach or duodenal ulcer.
• If you suffer from any inflammatory condition affecting the small intestine or colon such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
• If you have had part of your bowel removed by surgery.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines. In particular, let your doctor know if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take ursodeoxycholic acid

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take ursodeoxycholic acid exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take ursodeoxycholic acid at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. To dissolve gall stones it is usually taken once a day at bedtime. Sometimes your doctor may suggest you take two doses each day, in which case take your last dose of the day at bedtime. If you are taking ursodeoxycholic acid for primary biliary cirrhosis, your doctor will tell you exactly how much to take and when.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
• If you are taking the oral liquid form of ursodeoxycholic acid, make sure you shake the bottle well before pouring out a dose.
• Take ursodeoxycholic acid with or immediately after eating a meal or food.
• Do not stop taking ursodeoxycholic acid without consulting your doctor first.
• You may need to take ursodeoxycholic acid for up to two years. Once the gallstones have dissolved your doctor may continue your treatment for three to four months to ensure that they have completely cleared up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is important that you follow any dietary advice that you have been given by your doctor. Try to avoid foods that are high in calories or cholesterol.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so that your progress can be monitored.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with this medicine. This is particularly important for antacid preparations (indigestion remedies) which can interfere with the way ursodeoxycholic acid works.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Women should not become pregnant while they are taking ursodeoxycholic acid. If this affects you, ask your doctor or pharmacist about suitable contraception.

Can ursodeoxycholic acid cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store ursodeoxycholic acid

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines