Products
Ursodeoxycholic acid is available in many countries in various dosage forms and has been approved since 1978.
Structure and properties
Ursodeoxycholic acid (C24H40O4, Mr = 392.6 g/mol) exists as a white powder that is very sparingly soluble in water. It is a naturally occurring bile acid that can be prepared from bovine bile.
Effects
Ursodeoxycholic acid (ATC A05AA02) has litholytic properties. It can dissolve cholesterol-containing gallstones. It normalizes bile composition and thus can relieve dyspeptic symptoms.
Indications
- To dissolve cholesterol gallstones
- Dyspeptic complaints
- Fat intolerance
- Flatulence of biliary origin
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drugs are usually taken twice a day (morning and evening).
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include diarrhea and abdominal pain.