Ursodeoxycholic acid (150 mg) helps dissolve gallstones by working on your liver and bile. It makes your bile less toxic and improves its flow, which can lower cholesterol and prevent new stones. It also helps protect your liver. Take it exactly as your doctor says, at the same time each day, and don’t stop without asking them first. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next one. 

Be careful if you’re pregnant or have blocked bile ducts. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take. While food doesn’t usually interfere, avoid alcohol. Store it in a cool, dry place away from kids. If you take too much (more than your doctor recommends), get medical help right away. 

Ursodeoxycholic acid 150 mg is a biliary agent (gallstone dissolution agent) used to treat gallstone disease and prevent its formation during rapid weight loss. 

More Common

1. Bladder pain 
2. Bloody or cloudy urine 
3. Difficult, burning, or painful urination 
4. Dizziness 
5. Fast heartbeat 
6. Frequent urge to urinate 
7. Indigestion 
8. Lower back or side pain 
9. Severe nausea 
10. Skin rash or itching over the entire body 
11. Stomach pain 
12. Vomiting 
13. Weakness 

Less Common

1. Black, tarry stools 
2. Chest pain 
3. Chills or fever 
4. Cough 
5. Pinpoint red spots on the skin 
6. Severe or continuing stomach pain 
7. Sore throat or swollen glands 
8. Sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth 
9. Unusual bleeding or bruising 
10. Unusual tiredness or weakness 

Ursodeoxycholic acid works by protecting liver cells, improving bile flow, and making bile acids less toxic. It helps lower cholesterol levels in bile, which can prevent or dissolve gallstones. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, it shields liver and bile duct cells from damage. Overall, it supports better liver function and health. 

1- Pregnancy

Ursodeoxycholic acid is not approved for use during pregnancy due to insufficient data on its potential risks to the fetus.

2- Obstructive cholestasis

A condition in which the passage of bile flow is blocked. This medicine should not be used, as it may damage the bile ducts and impair their function.

Avoid taking ursodeoxycholic acid 300 mg with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal: 

Ursodeoxycholic acid does not interact with any food products, but alcohol should be avoided before and after taking the medicine, as it can increase or decrease the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid. 

1. Take ursodeoxycholic acid exactly as prescribed by your doctor, regularly at the same time each day. 
2. Do not stop taking ursodeoxycholic acid without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better. 
3. If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip it. 

1. The medicine should be stored at a cool temperature  
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture  
3. Keep away from the reach of children 

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name- 

(4R)-4-[(3R,5S,7S,8R,9S,10S,13R,14S,17R)-3,7-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethylhexadecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]pentanoic acid. 

Daily Dose

Take ursodeoxycholic acid exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.

Overdose

A dose exceeding 28–30 mg/kg per day is considered an overdose and can be potentially life-threatening. Symptoms of overdose may include diarrhea, dizziness, and faintness. If someone taking this medicine shows these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention and take them to the hospital without delay.

Gallstones are stones that form in a digestive organ called the gallbladder, where cholesterol can accumulate and harden into stone-like structures. While medicine can help dissolve existing stones, preventing new ones requires careful attention to your diet and exercise habits. Below are some foods you should include or consume with caution: 

Dietary

1- Fats

Avoid high-fat foods, as they are a major contributor to gallstone formation.

2- Dairy Products

Choose low-fat dairy options.

3- Pulses

Include dals, peas, and beans in your diet.

4- Starchy Foods

Opt for low-starch options like bread, rice, pasta, cereals, and potatoes in moderation. Avoid consuming foods high in starch.

5- Fruits

Most fruits are low in fat and safe to eat. However, avoid avocados and olives as they contain high amounts of fat.

Lifestyle

As part of lifestyle management, it is important to maintain a healthy weight. People with gallstones often have high cholesterol levels, which can contribute to weight gain. Regular exercise and weight management can help reduce the risk and symptoms of gallstones.

1- What is Ursodeoxycholic Acid used for? 

Ursodeoxycholic acid belongs to the class of biliary agents and is used for the dissolution of gallstones.

2- How long should Ursodeoxycholic Acid be taken? 

Ursodeoxycholic acid is generally taken for a duration of 6 to 24 months to dissolve gallstones. 

3- Does Ursodeoxycholic Acid reduce bilirubin? 

Ursodeoxycholic acid reduces the absorption of bilirubin from the intestinal region and increases bile flow. Essentially, it promotes the excretion of bilirubin through stool.

4- Can Ursodeoxycholic Acid dissolve gallstones? 

Yes, Ursodeoxycholic Acid is used for the treatment of gallstones. It works by dissolving the stones. 

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