What is ursodiol?
Ursodiol is a bile acid that decreases the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the intestines. Ursodiol helps break down cholesterol that has formed into stones in the gallbladder. Ursodiol also increases bile flow in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.
Ursodiol is used to treat small gallstones in people who cannot have gallbladder surgery, and to prevent gallstones in overweight patients undergoing rapid weight loss. Ursodiol is also used to treat primary biliary cirrhosis.
Ursodiol is not for treating gallstones that are calcified.
Ursodiol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about ursodiol?
Before taking ursodiol, tell your doctor if you are also taking cholestyramine (Questran), colestipol (Colestid), or estrogens (birth control pills or hormone replacement).
Avoid using antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of antacid your doctor recommends. Antacids contain different medicines and some types can make it harder for your body to absorb ursodiol.
To treat gallstones, you may have to take ursodiol for several months, and not all gallstones may completely dissolve. Many people who use this medicine will develop gallstones again within 5 years after treatment with ursodiol. Talk to your doctor about your specific risks for repeated gallstones.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor may perform ultrasound examinations of your gallbladder on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ursodiol?
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver disease.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether ursodiol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
To treat gallstones, you may have to take ursodiol for several months, and not all gallstones may completely dissolve. Many people who use this medicine will develop gallstones again within 5 years after treatment with ursodiol. Talk to your doctor about your specific risks for repeated gallstones.