Ursodeoxycholic Acid

Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

This medication is used for the treatment of gallstones. It is also used for the treatment of some forms of liver disease.

How should I take or use this medication?

  • Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
  • Take your medication with or after food.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

  • You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
  • You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
  • You have other conditions or a history of other conditions of the gastrointestinal tract or liver.

What are some common side effects of this medication?

  • Common side effects of Ursodeoxycholic acid include diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, nausea, headache, muscle or joint pain, and paleness. If these symptoms are persistent or if they are bothering you, please consult your healthcare professional for advice.
  • Should other unusual side effects occur, are persistent, or cause distress, please consult your healthcare professional.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

  • Certain drugs may decrease the effectiveness of this drug when taken at the same time. This includes some antacids. Separate administration by at least two hours.
  • Ursodeoxycholic acid may decrease the effect of other drugs such as Cyclosporine. Inform your doctor if you are taking other medications.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.


Disclaimer

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last reviewed on Jan 2021
Back to Top