What does it do?
Ursodeoxycholic acid is a bile acid which is produced naturally by the body. It is used to treat liver and bile duct problems.
Before you start
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
How should you take it?
Take ursodeoxycholic acid regularly as directed with a glass of water.
What if you forget a dose?
If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.
Can you take other medicines?
Some medicines available without a prescription may react with ursodeoxycholic acid including:
- antacids (e.g. Mylanta®) - do not take these within two hours of taking ursodeoxycholic acid.
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.
What side effects might you notice?
| Side Effects | Recommended action |
|---|---|
|
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Tell your doctor if troublesome |
If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
Other information:
- You may need regular blood tests while taking ursodeoxycholic acid to check your liver.
This leaflet contains important, but not all, information about this medicine.
Prepared by the MyMedicines Committee at Christchurch Hospital, Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha, New Zealand. March 2023
For more general information about this sheet and its contents, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?
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About My Medicines
My Medicines Patient Information Leaflets (PILs) contain important, but not all, information about the medicines they describe.
For more information about the sheets, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?
My Medicines is developed by a team at Te Whatu Ora – Waitaha. Our team is made up of doctors, pharmacists, and a non-medical person to help us keep to plain language. We also discuss our information with specialist health professionals or groups when needed