Medicine Information

Dexochol

Name: Dexochol
Brand: Dexochol
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet300 mgCholelitholytics & Hepatic ProtectorsATC: A05AA02

Generic Name

Ursodeoxycholic Acid

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dexochol 300 mg tablet	৳ 36.00	৳ 360.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) is a naturally occurring bile acid used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones and to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). It helps reduce the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the gut, leading to the dissolution of gallstones.

Uses & Indications

Dissolution of cholesterol gallstones (radiotransparent gallstones less than 15 mm in diameter, in patients with a functioning gallbladder).

Treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).

Management of cholestatic liver diseases.

Dosage

Adults

For gallstones: 8-10 mg/kg/day, usually given as a single dose at bedtime or in two divided doses. For PBC: 13-15 mg/kg/day, in 2-4 divided doses.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients.

Renal_impairment

No dose adjustment needed as UDCA is primarily eliminated via bile, not kidneys.

How to Take

Administer orally, usually with food to improve absorption. For gallstone dissolution, often taken once daily at bedtime. For PBC, doses may be divided throughout the day.

Mechanism of Action

UDCA reduces the cholesterol content of bile by suppressing hepatic cholesterol synthesis and secretion and by inhibiting intestinal absorption of cholesterol. It alters bile composition, making it less saturated with cholesterol, and has cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects on liver cells.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Gallstone dissolution can take 6-24 months. Symptomatic improvement in PBC may be seen within weeks to months.

Excretion

Primarily excreted in feces (via bile) as conjugated and unconjugated bile acids.

Half life

3.5 - 5.8 days (after chronic administration).

Absorption

Well absorbed orally (approx. 90%), but undergoes significant first-pass metabolism in the liver. Bioavailability is variable.

Metabolism

Undergoes extensive enterohepatic recirculation; conjugated with glycine and taurine in the liver and excreted into bile.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to ursodeoxycholic acid or any components.
Acute cholecystitis, cholangitis, or obstruction of the biliary tract.
Calcified cholesterol stones, radio-opaque gallstones, or non-functioning gallbladders.
Frequent episodes of biliary colic.

Drug Interactions

Cyclosporine

UDCA may increase the absorption of cyclosporine.

Oral Contraceptives/Estrogens, Clofibrate

May increase biliary cholesterol secretion, potentially counteracting the effect of UDCA.

Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Antacids (aluminum hydroxide)

These agents can bind to UDCA in the intestine, reducing its absorption. Administer at least 2 hours apart.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

The most common symptom of overdose is diarrhea. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B (FDA). Should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. UDCA is excreted into breast milk in small amounts; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per blister strip30 tablets per box (3 strips x 10 tablets)

Shelf Life

2-3 years from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

DGDA Approved

Patent Status

Off-patent

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of UDCA in dissolving cholesterol gallstones and managing PBC, leading to its widespread approval and use.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (AST, ALT, GGT, ALP, bilirubin) should be monitored at regular intervals (e.g., every 1-3 months), especially during the first few months of treatment.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize the importance of patient compliance for the long duration of treatment, especially for gallstone dissolution.
Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) regularly, particularly during the initial months of therapy for PBC.
Advise patients about potential drug interactions, especially with bile acid sequestrants and antacids.
Ensure proper diagnosis to rule out calcified gallstones or complete biliary obstruction before initiating UDCA therapy.

Patient Guidelines

Take Dexochol exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
Gallstone dissolution can take a long time (months to years); continue treatment even if symptoms improve.
Report any severe diarrhea or allergic reactions to your doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.