Ursodeoxycholic Acid Medications

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is a bile acid medication used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones and treat chronic liver conditions like primary biliary cholangitis.

Actigall

Ursodeoxycholic Acid

$2.44 per pill

300mg

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Ursodeoxycholic Acid Information

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a naturally occurring hydrophilic bile acid that has become a cornerstone in the management of cholestatic liver diseases. In Australia it is listed under the therapeutic classes of hepatoprotective agents and gallstone-dissolving agents. The drug works by altering the composition of bile, protecting cholangiocytes from toxic bile acids, and stimulating bile flow, thereby reducing liver injury and facilitating the dissolution of cholesterol gallstones. Branded products such as Ursofalk and Actigall are widely prescribed, and generic versions are readily available through our online pharmacy. Although its primary approvals are for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and selected gallstone cases, clinicians also employ UDCA off-label for various forms of cholestasis and as adjunct therapy in liver transplantation.

What is Ursodeoxycholic Acid?

Ursodeoxycholic acid belongs to the class of bile-acid therapeutics. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) first approved UDCA in 1997 for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis, and a subsequent amendment in 2006 extended its indication to the dissolution of cholesterol gallstones when surgery is not an option. The molecule is a secondary bile acid derived from ursolic acid, and it exerts its effect by replacing more hydrophobic, potentially toxic bile acids in the enterohepatic circulation.

Mechanistically, UDCA reduces the concentration of cholesterol in bile, modulates immune-mediated injury to intra-hepatic bile ducts, and enhances the secretion of bicarbonate-rich bile, which protects the biliary epithelium. In clinical practice the drug is supplied as tablets, capsules, and oral suspensions under brand names such as Ursofalk, Actigall, and the generic “ursodeoxycholic acid.” All of these formulations can be purchased from our pharmacy service at competitive prices without compromising quality.

How Ursodeoxycholic Acid Works

Mechanism of Action

Ursodeoxycholic acid integrates into the bile acid pool, displacing more hydrophobic bile acids like deoxycholic acid. This substitution lowers the overall cytotoxicity of bile, stabilises hepatocyte membranes, and reduces apoptosis of cholangiocytes. The drug also activates the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), leading to decreased hepatic synthesis of cholesterol and bile acids, and up-regulates the expression of transport proteins that facilitate bile flow.

Therapeutic Effects

By making bile less irritating, UDCA improves cholestasis symptoms, slows the progression of PBC, and can shrink cholesterol gallstones to a size that passes spontaneously. Patients with PBC often experience a reduction in serum alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels, markers that correlate with better long-term survival. In gallstone patients, the dissolution rate averages 40-60 % after one year of therapy, depending on stone composition and size.

Onset and Duration

Clinical trials show a measurable decline in alkaline phosphatase within 8-12 weeks of starting UDCA for PBC, with maximal biochemical response typically reached after 6-12 months. For gallstone dissolution, the therapeutic effect is slower; imaging studies demonstrate a median reduction in stone diameter of 2 mm after six months, and most patients require 12-24 months of continuous therapy to achieve complete clearance. The drug’s half-life is approximately 3.5 hours, but steady-state concentrations are maintained with daily dosing, providing continuous protection of the bile ducts.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC): First-line therapy endorsed by the TGA, supported by long-term data showing improved transplant-free survival.
Cholesterol gallstone dissolution: Indicated for patients with radiolucent stones ≤ 15 mm who are unsuitable for cholecystectomy.

These indications are cited in the TGA Product Information and the FDA label, both of which detail dosage recommendations and monitoring parameters.

Off-Label Uses

Ursodeoxycholic acid is employed off-label for:

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC): Small open-label studies suggest modest enzyme improvement, though it lacks formal approval.
Intra-hepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP): Some obstetric hepatology centers use UDCA to relieve pruritus and improve fetal outcomes, despite the absence of a TGA indication.

All off-label applications are not officially approved by regulatory agencies and should only be considered after a thorough risk-benefit assessment by a specialist.

Clinical Efficacy

A pivotal phase III trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that 45 % of PBC patients receiving UDCA achieved a ≥ 40 % reduction in alkaline phosphatase after 12 months, compared with 21 % on placebo (p < .001). In a Cochrane review of gallstone dissolution, UDCA achieved complete stone clearance in 50 % of treated individuals versus 5 % with placebo (relative risk = 10.2). These data underscore the drug’s proven benefit when used in the approved settings.

Buying Ursodeoxycholic Acid from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Access to UDCA can be limited in remote Australian regions, and private clinics sometimes charge premium prices for branded formulations. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap by offering a discreet, regulated channel to obtain both brand-name and high-quality generic UDCA at reduced cost.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Ursofalk - the most widely prescribed brand, available in 300 mg tablets.
Actigall - a U.S. brand often imported for specialist use.
Generic Ursodeoxycholic Acid - identical in strength and bioavailability, typically 30 % cheaper than branded equivalents.

Quality & Safety

We facilitate orders through verified partners under regulatory frameworks that adhere to TGA and WHO Good Manufacturing Practice standards.

Pricing & Access

Generic tablets start at AU$.45 each, while brand-name options range from AU$.80 to AU$1.20 per tablet. All orders qualify for a Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, making long-term therapy financially sustainable.

Discreet Delivery

Standard shipping averages three weeks, with an Express option of ~7 days for urgent needs. Each package arrives in plain, tamper-evident packaging that protects privacy while ensuring product integrity.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg, 600 mg.
Capsules: 250 mg, 500 mg.
Oral suspension: 250 mg/5 mL, for patients with swallowing difficulties.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For primary biliary cholangitis, clinicians usually start at 13-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses, and may adjust based on liver-function tests. For gallstone dissolution, a dose of 10-15 mg/kg/day is common, taken with meals to enhance absorption. These examples reflect standard practice; the exact regimen must be individualized by a healthcare professional.

Administration Guidelines

Ursodeoxycholic acid is best absorbed when taken with food, particularly a modest-fat meal that stimulates bile secretion. Patients should avoid splitting tablets or crushing capsules unless a liquid formulation is prescribed. Concomitant use of cholestyramine can reduce UDCA absorption, so a minimum 4-hour interval is advised.

The precise dose and schedule should always be determined by a qualified clinician who can account for weight, liver function, and other medications.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea: Reported in 10-15 % of patients; usually mild and transient.
Abdominal discomfort: Occurs in ~8 % of users.
Nausea: Affects roughly 6 % of patients.
Elevated liver enzymes: Transient rises seen in 5 % of trials, typically normalizing with continued therapy.

Serious Adverse Events

Rarely, UDCA can provoke severe hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, or hypersensitivity reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Immediate medical evaluation is required if patients develop jaundice, severe abdominal pain, or a rash covering > 30 % of body surface area.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to UDCA or any excipients.
Complete biliary obstruction (e.g., from a tumor) where bile flow cannot be restored.

Drug Interactions

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): May increase UDCA plasma levels, requiring monitoring.
Other bile-acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol): Significantly decrease UDCA absorption; separate dosing times by at least 4 hours.
Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine): Limited data suggest possible additive hepatotoxicity; close liver-function monitoring is advisable.

Special Populations

Pregnancy: UDCA is classified as Category B in Australia; it is often used for intra-hepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, but formal approval for this indication is absent. Discuss risks with an obstetrician.
Breastfeeding: Small amounts appear in milk; most clinicians consider it compatible with nursing if benefits outweigh potential risks.
Elderly: Reduced hepatic clearance may necessitate lower starting doses and closer monitoring of bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase.
Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose adjustments are recommended for severe liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh C) because metabolism is markedly reduced.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does ursodeoxycholic acid differ from chenodeoxycholic acid? UDCA is more hydrophilic and less cytotoxic, making it protective for liver cells, whereas chenodeoxycholic acid is more hydrophobic and can aggravate cholestasis.
How long before ursodeoxycholic acid produces noticeable effects for primary biliary cholangitis? Patients typically see a reduction in alkaline phosphatase within 8-12 weeks, but full clinical benefit may require 6-12 months of continuous therapy.
What is the typical time frame for gallstone dissolution with ursodeoxycholic acid? Imaging studies show a measurable decrease in stone size after six months, with many patients achieving complete clearance after 12-24 months of daily treatment.
What should I do if I experience persistent diarrhea while taking ursodeoxycholic acid? Maintain hydration, consider a lower-fat diet, and contact your healthcare provider; dose adjustment or an alternative therapy may be necessary.
Are there foods I should avoid while on ursodeoxycholic acid? No specific foods are contraindicated, but a balanced diet with moderate fat content can improve bile acid absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Can I use ursodeoxycholic acid during pregnancy? Although not formally approved for intra-hepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, many specialists prescribe it when benefits outweigh potential risks; always discuss with your obstetrician.
Is long-term use of ursodeoxycholic acid safe? Long-term studies up to 10 years have shown a favorable safety profile, with most adverse events being mild and reversible upon discontinuation.
Does taking ursodeoxycholic acid with other medications affect its efficacy? Yes. Bile-acid sequestrants and certain antibiotics can lower UDCA absorption; spacing doses by at least four hours mitigates this interaction.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing ursodeoxycholic acid?
- Complete list of current prescription and over-the-counter medications, including supplements.
- Detailed medical history, especially liver, gallbladder, and cardiovascular conditions.
- Specific symptoms (e.g., pruritus, fatigue) and their duration.
- Any previous reactions to bile-acid therapies or known allergies.

Disclaimer

The information provided about ursodeoxycholic acid is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing ursodeoxycholic acid for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing ursodeoxycholic acid.