Ursoliv 250mg (Ursodeoxycholic acid) x50

Ursoliv 250mg contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA), a naturally occurring bile acid. This medication primarily dissolves cholesterol gallstones and improves liver function in various hepatobiliary conditions by promoting bile flow and reducing toxic bile acids.

Uses

Ursoliv 250mg is used to dissolve small to medium-sized cholesterol gallstones in patients unsuitable for surgery. It treats primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Ursoliv also manages bile reflux gastritis and prevents gallstones during rapid weight loss.

Benefits

• Dissolves cholesterol gallstones without surgery
• Improves liver function tests in chronic liver diseases
• Reduces itching in cholestatic liver conditions
• Delays progression of primary biliary cholangitis
• Decreases toxic bile acids in the liver
• Protects liver cells from damage
• Improves bile flow and composition
• Reduces risk of gallstone formation during weight loss
• Well-tolerated with minimal side effects

How It Works

Ursodeoxycholic acid works by decreasing cholesterol production in the liver and reducing intestinal absorption. It alters bile composition, making cholesterol more soluble. UDCA replaces toxic bile acids with less damaging ones, protecting liver cells from injury. It also improves bile flow, reducing inflammation and supporting liver function.

Dosage

Take Ursoliv with food, dividing larger doses throughout the day. Swallow tablets whole with water.

Duration of Action

Ursoliv maintains steady therapeutic levels when taken daily. Improvement in liver function tests may be seen within 2-3 weeks, while gallstone dissolution typically requires 6-24 months of continuous therapy. Benefits persist as long as treatment continues, with effects declining gradually after discontinuation.

Side Effects

Most patients tolerate Ursoliv well. Mild digestive symptoms including diarrhea, nausea, or stomach discomfort occur occasionally. Rare side effects include skin rashes, itching, hair thinning, or increased liver enzymes. Serious adverse effects are uncommon with standard dosing.

Warning

Ursoliv is ineffective for calcified or non-cholesterol gallstones. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended during treatment. Discontinue and consult physician if severe right upper abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice develops. Not appropriate for patients with acute cholecystitis or inflammatory gallbladder diseases.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Limited data exists on use during pregnancy. Use only when clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Small amounts may pass into breast milk but is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Consult healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while nursing.

Interaction

• May reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives
• Could decrease absorption of cyclosporine
• May interact with cholesterol-lowering medications
• Aluminum-based antacids can reduce effectiveness
• Possible interaction with certain anticoagulants
• May affect absorption of fat-soluble vitamins

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with liver cirrhosis, inflammatory bowel disease, or kidney impairment. Gallstone patients should have follow-up ultrasounds every 6 months. Avoid in those with porcelain gallbladder or acute biliary tract inflammation. Take at least 2 hours before or after medications affected by bile acid binding.

Important Information

Ursoliv requires long-term treatment to achieve maximum benefit. Regular medical follow-up is essential to monitor progress. Maintain consistent dosing schedule for optimal results. Report any unusual symptoms promptly. Continue treatment as prescribed even after symptoms improve, as premature discontinuation may reverse benefits.