Description
🌿 What Is Ursodeoxycholic Acid?
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a naturally occurring bile acid used in the treatment of various liver and gallbladder disorders. It works by reducing cholesterol absorption, thinning bile, and improving bile flow in liver and biliary conditions.
💊 Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
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Active Ingredient: Ursodeoxycholic Acid 150 mg
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Inactive Ingredients: May include lactose, starch, magnesium stearate, and other excipients (vary by brand)
Mechanism of Action:
UDCA replaces more toxic bile acids, reduces cholesterol secretion into bile, and improves liver enzyme levels. It is especially helpful in conditions where bile flow is impaired or in dissolving cholesterol gallstones.
📋 Uses
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Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
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Cholestatic Liver Diseases
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Prevention and treatment of cholesterol gallstones
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Cystic Fibrosis–related liver disease
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Post liver transplant cholestasis
✅ How to Use
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Dosage: Typically 8–10 mg/kg/day in divided doses, based on condition and weight.
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Administration: Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
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Duration: May require long-term or lifelong treatment in chronic liver diseases.
⚠️ Common Side Effects
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Diarrhea or soft stools
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Nausea
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Abdominal pain
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Flatulence
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Headache
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Dizziness
These effects are usually mild and temporary.
🚨 Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)
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Severe abdominal pain
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Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
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Severe diarrhea or dehydration
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Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)
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Signs of liver failure (dark urine, confusion, fatigue)
🔍 Monitoring & Follow-Up
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Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Every 3–6 months
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Ultrasound: To monitor gallstones (if applicable)
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Periodic checks for inflammation
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Weight and symptoms monitoring: Especially in pediatric or underweight patients
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
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Liver impairment: Adjust dosage as necessary
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Gallstone composition: UDCA only dissolves cholesterol stones, not pigment stones
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed – consult physician
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Children: Safe under medical supervision for certain liver conditions
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Drug Interactions: Avoid with aluminum-based antacids, cholestyramine, or estrogen therapy, which may reduce UDCA’s effect
📌 Summary
Ursodeoxycholic Acid 150mg is an essential medication for liver and gallbladder disorders, particularly useful in managing bile flow and dissolving cholesterol gallstones. When taken under medical guidance, it is safe and effective, though regular monitoring is crucial to avoid complications. Patients should be aware of both common and serious side effects and adhere strictly to prescribed dosages and follow-up schedules.
Always consult a hepatologist or gastroenterologist before starting or stopping this medication.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
