Ursodiol is indicated for the following conditions:

• Gallstone disease: to dissolve radiolucent cholesterol stones in patients with a functioning gallbladder and in whom elective cholecystectomy would be undertaken except for the presence of increased surgical risk due to systemic disease, advanced age, idiosyncratic reaction to general anesthesia, or for patients who refuse surgery
• Primary biliary cholangitis: To slow the progression of primary biliary cholangitis in adults with well-compensated liver function.

Gallstone

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)

• The recommended dose of ursodiol for gallstone disease is 8-10mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses. Treatment duration is typically 6 months. For primary biliary cirrhosis, the recommended dose is 13-15mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses. Treatment duration is typically long-term. Dosing may need to be adjusted for patients with liver or kidney impairment.
• Ursodiol may be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole, do not crush or chew.

Common adverse reactions of Ursodeoxycholic Acid include-

• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• alopecia
• constipation
• dyspepsia

Diarrhea

Abdominal Pain

Constipation

Dyspepsia

• Ursodiol should not be used in patients with a complete obstruction of the bile ducts or in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to bile acids.
• Ursodiol may increase the risk of liver dysfunction in patients with pre-existing liver disease. Patients with liver disease should be closely monitored while taking ursodiol.
• Patients with variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites or in need of an urgent liver transplant, should receive appropriate specific treatment
• Ursodiol may cause diarrhea. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, patients should contact their healthcare provider.
• Ursodiol may interact with other drugs that affect bile secretion, including estrogen, oral contraceptives, and clofibrate. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking before starting ursodiol.