Generic Ursodiol

Common Use
Ursodiol is a bile acid used to dissolve certain types of gallstones and to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a chronic liver disease. It works by reducing the production of cholesterol and by dissolving cholesterol in bile. Ursodiol improves bile flow and helps protect liver cells from damage.

Dosage and Direction
Ursodiol is usually taken orally two to three times daily, with food or as directed by your healthcare provider. Dosage depends on your body weight and medical condition. Tablets or capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.

Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have liver problems other than PBC, gallbladder obstruction, or frequent bile duct infections. Regular liver function tests and imaging may be required during treatment. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should only occur if clearly needed and approved by your doctor.

Contraindications
Ursodiol is not recommended for patients with calcified or pigmented gallstones or non-functional gallbladders. It is also contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to bile acids. Avoid use if you have acute inflammation or obstruction of bile ducts.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and headache. Rare but serious effects may include liver enzyme elevation, allergic reactions, or gallstone complications. Report any signs of jaundice, dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain to your doctor.

Drug Interaction
Ursodiol may interact with drugs that affect bile or cholesterol, such as cholestyramine, colestipol, aluminum-based antacids, and estrogen-containing medications. These can reduce its absorption or effectiveness. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed one and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Overdose
Overdose is rare but may cause diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. In case of overdose, contact a healthcare provider or poison control center immediately. Supportive care is usually sufficient.

Storage
Store ursodiol at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date on the label.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)