UDIHEP FORTE
Ursodeoxychobic acid 300mg
What it does
Ursodeoxycholic acid helps improve liver function and reduce bile acid buildup.
Commonly used for: liver disease (cholestasis), gallstones, primary biliary cholangitis
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-03-11 22:07:20 · updated 2026-09-21 02:30:20
About this medicine
Ursodeoxycholic acid helps improve liver function and reduce bile acid buildup.
What it treats
- liver disease (cholestasis)
- gallstones
- primary biliary cholangitis
How it works
It works by helping to dissolve bile acids and improve the flow of bile from the liver.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults with certain liver and gallbladder conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: ursodeoxychobic
Ursodeoxycholic acid, also known as ursodiol, is a bile acid used primarily in the treatment of certain liver and gallbladder disorders. It is derived from bear bile and is used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones and to treat primary biliary cholangitis, an autoimmune disease that damages the bile ducts in the liver.
Indications
- Dissolution of cholesterol gallstones in patients with symptomatic gallstones
- Primary biliary cholangitis
- Liver disease associated with cystic fibrosis
- Cholestatic liver diseases
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing based on the child's condition and weight.
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines for dosing based on the condition being treated. Generally, dosing may range from 8-12 mg/kg/day for gallstone dissolution.
Mechanism of action
Ursodeoxycholic acid works by reducing the cholesterol content of bile, which promotes the dissolution of cholesterol gallstones. It also enhances bile flow and has cytoprotective effects on hepatocytes, thereby improving liver function. Additionally, it may inhibit apoptosis and promote the regeneration of liver cells through its action on various cellular pathways.
Pharmacodynamics
Ursodeoxycholic acid has several pharmacodynamic effects including the reduction of cholesterol saturation in bile, increased bile acid flow, and modulation of immune responses. It exerts a protective effect on cholangiocytes and hepatocytes, reduces the toxicity of hydrophobic bile acids, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Ursodeoxycholic acid is absorbed in the small intestine and undergoes enterohepatic recirculation. It is metabolized primarily in the liver, with a small portion excreted in the urine. The bioavailability of ursodeoxycholic acid is approximately 60% after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-3 hours post-dose. The half-life is approximately 3-5 hours.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to ursodeoxycholic acid or any of the excipients
- Severe liver impairment
- Pregnancy (unless clearly needed)
Adverse effects
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Pruritus
Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum can decrease the absorption of ursodeoxycholic acid
- Cholestyramine and other bile acid sequestrants may reduce the effects of ursodeoxycholic acid
- Estrogens may increase the risk of gallstone formation when used with ursodeoxycholic acid
Precautions
- Monitor liver function tests regularly during treatment
- Use with caution in patients with active liver disease
- Evaluate the risks versus benefits in patients with gallstones
Pregnancy
Ursodeoxycholic acid should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Ursodeoxycholic acid is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Capsule
- Tablet
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.