Actigall
Actigall: A Bile Acid That Reduces Cholesterol Levels
Actigall (Ursodiol or Ursodeoxycholic Acid) is a bile acid used primarily to treat gallstones and certain liver diseases. It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol in bile, helping to dissolve gallstones and prevent their formation. Additionally, Actigall is used to improve liver function in conditions like primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
How Actigall Works
Actigall helps regulate cholesterol levels in the bile by:
✔ Decreasing cholesterol absorption in the intestine
✔ Reducing cholesterol secretion from the liver into bile
✔ Increasing bile flow, which helps break down gallstones and protect liver cells
By doing so, Actigall can gradually dissolve small gallstones without the need for surgery and protect the liver from further damage in patients with chronic liver diseases.
Medical Uses of Actigall
💊 Gallstone Dissolution
- Used in patients with small, non-calcified cholesterol gallstones who cannot undergo surgery
- Prevents gallstone formation in people losing weight rapidly
💊 Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
- A chronic liver disease where bile ducts are gradually destroyed, leading to liver damage
- Actigall improves bile flow and reduces liver inflammation
💊 Liver Protection in Other Conditions
- Cystic fibrosis-related liver disease
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Bile acid disorders in children
Dosage and Administration
📌 Typical Dosage for Gallstones: 8-10 mg/kg per day, divided into 2-3 doses
📌 Primary Biliary Cholangitis: 13-15 mg/kg per day, taken in 2 divided doses
📌 Take with food for better absorption
📌 May take months to dissolve gallstones, requires regular monitoring
Possible Side Effects
While generally well tolerated, Actigall may cause:
- Mild diarrhea
- Nausea or stomach pain
- Headaches or dizziness
- Fatigue
❗ Rare but serious side effects include:
- Severe liver dysfunction (monitor liver enzymes regularly)
- Worsening of existing gallstones if not suitable for treatment
Precautions and Drug Interactions
🚨 Do NOT take Actigall if you have:
🚫 Calcified gallstones (not effective for these types)
🚫 Severe liver or gallbladder disease
🚫 Allergy to bile acids or any components of the drug
⚠ Interactions:
💊 Cholestyramine and Antacids – Reduce Actigall absorption
💊 Estrogen-based birth control pills – May counteract Actigall’s effects
Conclusion
Actigall is an effective bile acid therapy that helps reduce cholesterol levels in bile, prevent gallstone formation, and support liver function in chronic diseases. While it is not suitable for all gallstone types, it offers a non-surgical alternative for some patients. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine if Actigall is the right treatment for you. 🚀
