Ursodiol Capsule

Ursodiol Capsules
Usage
Ursodiol (ursodeoxycholic acid) capsules are used in the management of certain liver and biliary disorders. Ursodiol is a naturally occurring bile acid that helps improve bile flow and reduce the formation of cholesterol gallstones.
It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as:
• Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
• Cholesterol gallstone dissolution in patients who are not suitable for surgery
• Cholestatic liver diseases where bile flow is impaired
• Certain hepatobiliary disorders under specialist supervision
Compounded ursodiol capsules may be prepared when customised strengths are required to allow more precise dosing for individual patients.

Dosage
Dosage should be determined by the prescribing practitioner based on the patient’s condition, body weight, and clinical response.
Typical dosing considerations include:
• Ursodiol is commonly administered two to three times daily with food.
• The total daily dose may be divided into multiple doses to improve tolerability and absorption.
• Treatment duration may vary depending on the indication and patient response.
Patients should follow the dosing instructions provided by their healthcare provider and should not change the dose without medical advice.

Mechanisms of Action
Ursodiol is a hydrophilic bile acid that exerts beneficial effects on bile composition and liver function.
Its mechanisms include:
Reduction of cholesterol saturation in bile
Ursodiol decreases the secretion of cholesterol into bile and reduces intestinal cholesterol absorption, helping dissolve cholesterol gallstones.
Improvement of bile flow
It promotes bile secretion and helps reduce bile stasis in cholestatic liver conditions.
Cytoprotective effects
Ursodiol helps protect liver cells from damage caused by toxic bile acids by replacing more hydrophobic bile acids in the bile acid pool.
Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects
In certain liver diseases, ursodiol may reduce inflammation and slow disease progression.

Contraindications
Ursodiol should not be used in patients with:
• Hypersensitivity to ursodiol or other bile acids
• Complete biliary obstruction
• Non-functioning gallbladder in patients being treated for gallstone dissolution
• Calcified or pigment gallstones, which are unlikely to respond to therapy

Precautions
Use ursodiol with caution in patients with:
• Advanced liver disease or severe hepatic impairment
• Frequent biliary colic or gallbladder complications
• Conditions that may affect bile flow or gallbladder function
Other considerations include:
• Liver function tests may be monitored during treatment, particularly in patients with chronic liver disease.
• Gallstone dissolution therapy may require long-term treatment and periodic imaging to monitor response.
• Patients should continue therapy as prescribed even if symptoms improve, unless directed otherwise by their healthcare provider.

Storage
• Store below 25°C unless otherwise directed.
• Keep the capsules in a tightly closed container.
• Protect from excess heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Patients should follow the specific storage instructions provided on the dispensing label.