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Ursodiol: Could This Be the Key to Dissolving Your Gallstones?
Published: Aug 04, 2024
For those unable to have surgery, ursodiol offers a promising alternative to dissolve gallstones. Learn how this medication works and who it's best for.
What is Ursodiol?
Ursodiol is a bile acid that helps dissolve gallstones by breaking down cholesterol, the primary component of these stones. It is particularly effective for small, non-calcified stones and can also alleviate symptoms like biliary colic. Understanding its mechanism is crucial for those considering nonsurgical options.
Who Can Benefit from Ursodiol?
Ideal candidates for ursodiol are patients with small (<1 cm), cholesterol-rich, and non-calcified gallstones with a functioning gallbladder. Those who experience mild symptoms and cannot undergo surgery may find significant relief with this therapy. It's important to have the right gallstone characteristics for ursodiol to be effective.
Treatment Duration and Monitoring
Ursodiol treatment often requires a long-term commitment, with regular monitoring through ultrasounds every 6 to 12 months. Complete dissolution can take years, but symptom relief may occur sooner. Continued therapy even after stone clearance can help prevent recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
It dissolves gallstones by breaking down cholesterol in the stones.
Those with small, cholesterol-rich, non-calcified stones and mild symptoms.
Yes, to prevent recurrence after stones dissolve.
Every 6 to 12 months via ultrasound.
Wrapping Up
Could ursodiol be the right choice for your gallstone management?
References
- Rubin RA, Kowalski TE, Khandelwal M, Malet PF. Ursodiol for hepatobiliary disorders. Ann Intern Med 1994; 121:207.
- Tomida S, Abei M, Yamaguchi T, et al. Long-term ursodeoxycholic acid therapy is associated with reduced risk of biliary pain and acute cholecystitis in patients with gallbladder stones: a cohort analysis. Hepatology 1999; 30:6.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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