|
Ursodiol description. Ursodiol (ur-so-DYE-ole) is used in the treatment of gallstone disease. It is taken by mouth to dissolve the gallstones. Ursodiol is used in patients with gallstones who do not need to have their gallbladders removed or in those in whom surgery should be avoided because of other medical problems. However, ursodiol works only in those patients whose gallstones are made of cholesterol and works best when these stones are small and of the “floating” type. Ursodiol is also used to help prevent gallstones in patients who are on rapid weight-loss programs. Ursodiol is also used in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis causes a patient's liver to have problems and not work properly. Ursodiol is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Capsules (U.S. and Canada) Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Why prescribed Ursodiol. Ursodiol is used to dissolve gallstones in patients who do not want surgery or cannot have surgery to remove gallstones. Ursodiol is also used to prevent the formation of gallstones in overweight patients who are losing weight very quickly. Ursodiol is a bile acid, a substance naturally produced by the body that is stored in the gallbladder. It works by decreasing the production of cholesterol and by dissolving the cholesterol in bile so that it cannot form stones. Ursodiol is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. How used Ursodiol. Ursodiol comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken two or three times a day to treat gallstones and two times a day to prevent gallstones in patients who are losing weight quickly. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ursodiol exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. This drug must be taken for months to have an effect. You may need to take ursodiol for up to 2 years. Your gallstones may not completely dissolve, and even if your gallstones do dissolve you may have gallstones again within 5 years after successful treatment with ursodiol. Continue to take ursodiol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking ursodiol without talking to your doctor. Brand names: - Actigall - URSO - URSO 250 - Ursodiol - Ursofalk |