Ursocol SR (UDCA) 450

Manufacturer: Sun Pharmaceutical ind. ltd.

Pharmaceutical name: Ursodeoxycholic Acid

Pack: 10 pills (450 mg)

Ursocol SR (UDCA) is classified as one of the secondary bile acids, which are byproducts generated by intestinal bacteria. The liver produces primary bile acids, which are then stored in the gallbladder. Upon being secreted into the colon, these primary bile acids can be converted into secondary bile acids through the action of intestinal bacteria. Both primary and secondary bile acids play an important role in the digestion of fats in the body.

 

Ursodeoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring bile acid found in the body that is stored in the gallbladder. Ursocol SR (UDCA) assists in managing cholesterol levels by slowing down the absorption of cholesterol molecules in the intestine while also emulsifying micelles that contain cholesterol. Due to this characteristic, Ursocol SR (UDCA) is utilized for the non-surgical treatment of gallstones.

 

Recommended dosage for adults is 6-12 mg/kg daily, taken as a single dose at bedtime or split into 2-3 doses, maintained for 3-4 months after stones have been radiologically shown to disappear. The doses can be unevenly distributed, with a larger dose taken before bedtime to mitigate the rise in biliary cholesterol saturation that occurs in the early morning. The maximum allowable dose is 15 mg/kg. For patients with hepatic impairment due to chronic liver disease (excluding primary biliary cirrhosis), caution is advised.

 

Precautions: Individuals with a history of issues related to the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or bile ducts should exercise caution. This medication should also be used with care during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

 

Common side effects may include diarrhea, gastrointestinal discomfort, itching, back pain, nausea, and vomiting.

 

Interactions: The effectiveness of Ursocol SR (UDCA) may be diminished by cholestyramine, charcoal, and antacids. Estrogens and clofibrate can also reduce the efficacy of ursodeoxycholic acid by promoting cholesterol elimination in bile. Additionally, it may decrease the effectiveness of dapsone, and aluminum-based antacids might hinder absorption.