Uliv
Generic Name
Ursodeoxycholic Acid
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| uliv 300 mg tablet | ৳ 25.00 | ৳ 250.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Uliv 300 mg Tablet contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid, used to dissolve certain types of gallstones and to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For gallstone dissolution: 8-10 mg/kg/day, usually divided into 2-3 doses. For PBC: 13-15 mg/kg/day, divided into 2-4 doses.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary, as UDCA is not significantly excreted via the kidneys.
How to Take
Take orally with food. For gallstone dissolution, a single dose at bedtime is often recommended for better efficacy. For PBC, doses should be divided.
Mechanism of Action
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) works by suppressing hepatic synthesis and secretion of cholesterol, and by inhibiting intestinal absorption of cholesterol. It alters the bile acid pool, making it less saturated with cholesterol, thereby allowing cholesterol gallstones to dissolve. In PBC, it has immunomodulatory effects and protects liver cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Effects on bile composition can be seen within days; gallstone dissolution takes months.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in the feces via biliary excretion.
Half life
Approximately 3-6 days (after chronic administration due to enterohepatic recirculation).
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (about 90% of a dose). Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1-3 hours.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver to active and inactive metabolites, primarily by conjugation with glycine and taurine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Acute inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts.
- Calcified gallstones (radio-opaque gallstones).
- Non-functioning gallbladder.
- Frequent episodes of biliary colic.
- Pregnancy and lactation (unless benefits outweigh risks).
Drug Interactions
Cholestyramine, Colestipol
Can bind to UDCA and reduce its absorption, take UDCA at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after these.
Antacids (aluminum-containing)
May reduce the absorption of UDCA.
Estrogens, Oral Contraceptives, Clofibrate
May increase biliary cholesterol secretion, potentially counteracting UDCA's effect.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms: Primarily diarrhea. Management: Symptomatic treatment, including rehydration. No specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Small amounts may pass into breast milk; use with caution. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Acute inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts.
- Calcified gallstones (radio-opaque gallstones).
- Non-functioning gallbladder.
- Frequent episodes of biliary colic.
- Pregnancy and lactation (unless benefits outweigh risks).
Drug Interactions
Cholestyramine, Colestipol
Can bind to UDCA and reduce its absorption, take UDCA at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after these.
Antacids (aluminum-containing)
May reduce the absorption of UDCA.
Estrogens, Oral Contraceptives, Clofibrate
May increase biliary cholesterol secretion, potentially counteracting UDCA's effect.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms: Primarily diarrhea. Management: Symptomatic treatment, including rehydration. No specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Small amounts may pass into breast milk; use with caution. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated UDCA's efficacy in dissolving cholesterol gallstones and in managing primary biliary cholangitis, showing significant improvement in biochemical parameters and delaying disease progression in PBC.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin) at baseline and every 3-6 months, especially during the first year of treatment for PBC.
- Monitoring of gallstone size and number by ultrasound every 6-12 months for dissolution therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the long duration required for gallstone dissolution and the importance of adherence to therapy.
- Regular monitoring of liver function tests (LFTs) is crucial, especially in PBC patients, at least every 3-6 months.
- Review concomitant medications for potential interactions, particularly bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine) and aluminum-containing antacids, and advise appropriate dosing separation.
- Emphasize that UDCA is ineffective for calcified (radio-opaque) gallstones and in patients with a non-functioning gallbladder.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Uliv exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better, as treatment is often long-term.
- Report any severe or persistent diarrhea, or other unusual symptoms to your doctor.
- If you are taking other medications, especially antacids or cholesterol-lowering drugs, inform your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally, UDCA does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or other side effects that impair concentration, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to support overall liver health.
- Avoid foods excessively rich in cholesterol and saturated fats.
- Limit alcohol intake, as it can be detrimental to liver conditions.
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