Ursodeoxycholic acid
Ursodeoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring bile acid that shifts the composition of bile towards a less toxic, more water-soluble mixture and improves bile flow. This protects liver cells and bile duct cells from the detergent effect of the body's own bile acids. It is a prescription medicine used for liver and biliary support, including cholestatic liver conditions and cholesterol gallstones.
It is taken with food and at bedtime, since bile acid handling and gallstone formation are most active overnight and food helps absorption. Liver enzymes and bilirubin — ALT, AST, GGT and total bilirubin — are followed to judge whether it is working, so blood tests are part of treatment rather than an optional extra. Bile acid binders and some cholesterol-lowering agents can reduce how much is absorbed. Long courses should be reassessed periodically with the prescriber rather than continued indefinitely by habit.
See a doctor if the skin or whites of the eyes turn yellow, the urine darkens, the stools go pale, or there is persistent right-sided upper abdominal pain, itching or fever.
Reference information, not medical advice. Discuss any change with your doctor.