Udihep
Generic Name
Ursodeoxycholic Acid
Manufacturer
Abbott
Country
India
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| udihep 150 mg tablet | ৳ 12.71 | ৳ 127.10 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Udihep 150 mg Tablet contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA), a naturally occurring bile acid. It is primarily used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones, treat primary biliary cholangitis (an autoimmune liver disease), and manage biliary reflux gastritis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Cholesterol gallstones: 8-10 mg/kg/day in 2-3 divided doses, for up to 2 years. PBC: 13-15 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses, for long-term use. Biliary reflux gastritis: 150 mg once daily at bedtime, for 10-14 days.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment required; use with caution in patients with comorbidities.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with meals, or as directed by the physician. For gallstone dissolution, divide daily dose and take with meals. For PBC, take with food. For biliary reflux gastritis, take once daily at bedtime.
Mechanism of Action
Ursodeoxycholic Acid suppresses hepatic cholesterol synthesis and secretion into bile and inhibits intestinal absorption of cholesterol. It alters the composition of bile, making it less saturated with cholesterol, thereby allowing cholesterol gallstones to dissolve. In liver diseases, it has cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Gallstone dissolution may take several months (e.g., 6-24 months). Symptomatic improvement in PBC is gradual.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in feces, mainly as conjugates.
Half life
Approximately 3-5 days.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (about 90%).
Metabolism
Undergoes extensive enterohepatic recirculation. Conjugated with glycine and taurine in the liver. A small amount is metabolized by intestinal bacteria to lithocholic acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ursodeoxycholic acid or any component of the formulation.
- Acute cholecystitis, cholangitis, or other acute inflammatory conditions of the gallbladder or bile ducts.
- Complete obstruction of the biliary tract.
- Calcified cholesterol gallstones or radiopaque gallstones.
- Frequent episodes of biliary colic.
Drug Interactions
Cyclosporine
UDCA may increase the absorption and blood levels of cyclosporine.
Oral Contraceptives, Estrogens
May increase biliary cholesterol secretion and counteract the effect of UDCA.
Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Aluminum-containing antacids
These agents bind bile acids and reduce the absorption of UDCA. Administer UDCA at least 2 hours before or after these drugs.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
The main symptom of overdose is diarrhea. Management is symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote is known.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Ursodeoxycholic acid is excreted into breast milk in very small amounts; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ursodeoxycholic acid has been extensively studied in various clinical trials for its efficacy in dissolving gallstones and treating liver diseases like PBC. It is a well-established therapy.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin) at baseline and every 3 months for the first year, then annually.
- Regular ultrasound of the gallbladder for gallstone dissolution every 6-12 months.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure regular monitoring of liver function tests (LFTs) and gallbladder ultrasound.
- Counsel patients on the importance of adherence to the treatment regimen for optimal outcomes.
- Consider potential drug interactions, especially with bile acid binding resins and oral contraceptives.
- Contraindicated in complete biliary obstruction and calcified gallstones.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor, preferably with food.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Regular follow-up appointments and lab tests are crucial during treatment.
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 continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Udihep 150 mg Tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet and avoid rapid weight loss.
- Limit consumption of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
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