Ursodiol Capsules or Tablets

What is this medication?

URSODIOL (ER soe dye ol) prevents and treats gallstones. It works by stopping your liver from making cholesterol, a substance that causes some types of gallstones to form. It also breaks down the cholesterol that makes up the gallstone.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Actigall, Reltone, Urso 250, Urso Forte

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Blocked bile duct or fistula
• Pancreatitis
• An unusual or allergic reaction to ursodiol, bile acids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

Take antacids at a different time of day than this medication. Take this medication 1 hour BEFORE or 2 hours AFTER antacids.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Antacids
• Cholestyramine
• Clofibrate, fenofibrate, or gemfibrozil
• Colesevelam
• Colestipol
• Estrogen or progestin hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may take months of therapy to get the right response. Your care team will schedule tests to see if your gallstones are dissolving or if your liver problem is improving. You may also need blood work done while you are taking this medication to check that your liver is working properly. Report continued or worsened nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain to your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Nausea
• Stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medications to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If your cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.