Gastroprotective

Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA)

Brand names: Ursofalk, Destolit

Ursodeoxycholic acid is a bile acid used as first-line treatment for primary biliary cholangitis, to dissolve some cholesterol gallstones, and in certain cholestatic conditions.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

A hydrophilic, less toxic bile acid, it partly replaces more cytotoxic bile acids and improves bile flow, protecting liver and bile-duct cells.

Prescribing in practice

It is first-line for primary biliary cholangitis, improving liver biochemistry and outcomes.
Diarrhoea is the main side effect.
It is unsuitable for calcified (radio-opaque) gallstones or a non-functioning gallbladder.

Monitoring

Monitor liver function (and the biochemical response in primary biliary cholangitis).

Counselling the patient

Take it long-term as directed.
Mild diarrhoea may occur.

Evidence & guidelines

First-line for primary biliary cholangitis (EASL/NICE guidance), improving liver biochemistry.

Reference: BSG PBC Guidelines 2018; NICE; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Drugs

Pathways