Ursodiol
Generic Name: Ursodiol
Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:
You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.
Uses & Medical Indications
Dissolution of radiolucent gallstones; prevention of gallstones; treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
Gallstones, Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
Gallstones: 8-10 mg/kg/day in 2-3 divided doses. PBC: 13-15 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses.
PBC: 13-15 mg/kg/day
No specific adjustments
Based on weight
No adjustment required
Contraindicated in complications of liver disease requiring surgery
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Diarrhea, headache, dizziness, dyspepsia
Worsening of liver function in some patients, cholecystitis
Calcified cholesterol stones, radio-opaque stones, acute cholecystitis
Monitor for abnormal liver tests. Not for treatment of acute cholecystitis.
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
Bile acid sequestrants, aluminum-based antacids, oral contraceptives
N/A
N/A
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Generally considered safe if needed
Present in human milk in small amounts, likely safe
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Take with food. Do not chew tablets. May take months for gallstones to dissolve.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if close to next dose.
Liver function tests (AST, ALT, GGT, Alk Phos, Bilirubin), ultrasound of gallbladder
Content for Ursodiol was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.