Ursodiol
Generic Name: Ursodiol
Uses & Medical Indications
Dissolution of radiolucent gallstones; prevention of gallstones; treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
Gallstones, Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Ursodiol works at the cellular level to correct underlying biochemical imbalances, reduce clinical symptoms, and support overall health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Ursodiol exerts targeted therapeutic activity by interacting with specific cellular receptors, enzymatic pathways, or biological signaling cascades to relieve symptoms and restore physiological balance.
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
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Ursodiol was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- 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.