Ursodeoxycholic Acid / Ursodiol

3 Step Quality
Assurance

Cash on delivery
available

NPPA
Regulated

Molecule Description

Ursodeoxycholic Acid, commonly known as Ursodiol, is a naturally occurring bile acid produced in small amounts by the liver. It is used to treat various liver and gallbladder disorders. Ursodiol helps in conditions such as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), cholesterol-based gallstones, and certain liver problems linked to cystic fibrosis. Its primary action is to reduce bile cholesterol, making it less likely that cholesterol will form stones and improving bile flow within the liver. Ursodeoxycholic Acid works by replacing more harmful bile acids, protecting liver cells, and promoting smoother bile movement. Because liver conditions often take time to improve, Ursodiol treatment is usually long-term, lasting several months or longer. It is generally taken after meals, and dosing varies depending on the condition being treated and the patient’s body weight. Common side effects may include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, itching, rash, or temporary hair thinning. While not everyone experiences these effects, any persistent or bothersome symptoms should be discussed with a doctor. Ursodiol is considered safe when used under medical supervision, especially with regular follow-up to monitor liver function.

Uses

Gallbladder stone
Gallstone prevention (in obese patients who are prone to develop gallstones)
Primary biliary cirrhosis

Contraindications

When should one not use Ursodeoxycholic Acid / Ursodiol

Do not take this medicine if you have:
Blockage in the bile duct
Allergy to any of its contents
Acute inflammation (redness and swelling) of gallbladder or bile duct
An impaired contractility of gallbladder
An active gastric or duodenal ulcer

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Diarrhea
Constipation
Stomach pain
Vomiting

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

The effect of Ursodiol on the fetus is not known. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant. Your doctor will tell you about the use of Ursodiol after assessing the benefits of it over risks.

Breast Feeding

A small amount of medicine passes into breast milk. Limited information is available about its safety in breastfeeding, hence do not take this medicine unless considered essential by your physician.

Driving

No information is available on the ability to drive any vehicle or use machines. However, if you observe or experience any side effects, it is advised not to drive a vehicle or use machines. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for further information.

Alcohol

Alcohol is better avoided as it may hinder the liver protective action of this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting after taking this medicine
You have liver or kidney disease

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

It helps in dissolving cholesterol and prevents its production in the liver and absorption from the intestine, thereby preventing gallstones. It also decreases the level of elevated bile acids that may be harmful to the liver.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Estrogen preparations reduce the efficacy of Ursodiol
Do not consume any acidity medication that contains aluminium or lipid-lowering compounds like Cholestyramine or Colestipol (which are bile acid sequestrants) an hour before or two hours after taking Ursodiol
Cyclosporine
Ciprofloxacin
Rosuvastatin

Interactions with food items

No information is available on interactions of Ursodiol when taken with food, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dietary Restrictions

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Ursodiol, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dosage

Overdose

In case you overdose, you may experience diarrhea. You must contact your physician immediately or visit the nearest medical emergency centre.

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it once you recollect. If it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with the routine dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancyInform him if you are allergic to any food or medicinal substanceInflammation of the gallbladder, bile duct, or pancreas should be reported or if suspected should be discussed with your doctorUrsodiol can interact with many other medicines. Hence, the doctor needs to know about all the medications that you are consuming

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is used to treat various liver and gallbladder disorders. It helps in conditions such as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), cholesterol-based gallstones, and certain liver problems linked to cystic fibrosis.

Some people may experience stomach pain, diarrhoea, nausea, itching, rash, or mild hair thinning. These are usually temporary, but consult your doctor if they persist.

Because liver conditions often take time to improve, treatment is usually long-term, lasting several months or longer. Consult your doctor regarding exact duration of your treatment.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double the dose to catch up. Continue your regular schedule and consult your doctor if you frequently forget doses.

Articles

View All

Did you find this helpful?

References:

Explore More at Pharmeasy

Why trust PharmEasy?

# ONE OF INDIA'S MOST TRUSTED HEALTHCARE PLATFORM

CODAvailable

100%Genuine Medicine

30 DAYReturn Policy

Making medicines affordable, authentic, and easily accessible across India

700+100% Genuine & verified medicines

70,000+Medicine orders everyday

70 MillionTotal customer served

70 MillionDelivery hubs & fulfillment centre

7000Trained & trusted delivery partners