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Home > Drug Category > Disorders of the Digestive Tract (IBS,Crohns Disease,Stomach) > Urso and Equivalent

Urso Information

Urso (Ursodiol, also known as Ursodeoxycholic Acid) is primarily used to treat primary biliary cholangitis, a chronic autoimmune liver disease in which the body's immune system gradually destroys the small bile ducts within the liver, which leads to the buildup of bile in the blood with consequent inflammation, scarring and damage to the liver. Urso is also used as an alternative to surgery to dissolve gallstones (stones in the gallbladder) caused by excess cholesterol, especially stones not visible on X-ray and measuring no more than 15 mm in diameter. Gallstones typically form when there is an excess of cholesterol in bile, leading to crystallization. It may also be used to prevent the formation of gallstones in people who are obese and rapidly losing weight. Furthermore, Urso has also been shown to help treat liver disease caused by a condition called cystic fibrosis, especially in young people aged 6-18 years. Urso's active ingredient, ursodiol, is a naturally occurring bile acid and belongs to the class of hepatoprotective agents. In treating primary biliary cholangitis, ursodiol protects the liver cells by replacing more toxic bile acids and by improving bile flow. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, thereby improving liver function and slowing the progression of the disease. In treating gallstones, it reduces the liver's production and intestinal absorption of cholesterol, making the bile less prone to forming new stones and gradually dissolving existing ones by breaking down their cholesterol content.

Urso Side Effects

Like all medications, ursodiol may cause some side effects. Some common side effects include soft, loose stools or diarrhea, body itching, mild abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, or symptoms of a common cold. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Abnormal heartbeat, including fast or irregular heartbeat;
• Bleeding problems, such as easy bruising or bleeding;
• Breathing problems or wheezing;
• Fever or general ill feeling;
• High blood sugar;
• Intestinal blockage with symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and constipation;
• Joint pain;
• Signs of worsening liver problems, such as severe right upper abdominal pain, yellow eyes, and skin;
• Swelling in the ankles or feet

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Urso Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to ursodiol or any other ingredients in Urso. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Inflammatory bowel disease;
• Other gallbladder problems such as cholecystitis;
• Other liver or biliary diseases, such as blockage in the liver or biliary tract

Urso is not suitable for use in dissolving calcified gallstones (which is visible on X-ray). Ensure follow-up visits with your doctor while using this medication, as your doctor may need to check your liver function at regular intervals to ensure optimal treatment and look out for adverse effects. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Ursodiol may interact with other medications or substances, such as antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin and dapsone), cholestyramine, ciclosporin, and rosuvastatin. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Urso to prevent potential drug interactions. This medication is available in tablet and capsule forms and is typically taken orally. Consult your doctor for the appropriate dose, as it mostly depends on the condition being treated and your body weight. Take this medicine during meals to aid absorption and for optimal effectiveness. Use this medication regularly as prescribed to maintain its effectiveness. Store it in a cool, dry place, and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Urso?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Urso.