Ursodiol

What is ursodiol?

Ursodiol (brand names: Actigall®, Urso®, Ursofalk®) is a bile acid reducer used to treat the symptoms of gallbladder or bile-related liver diseases such as gallbladder mucocele, cholestasis, and chronic liver inflammation.

Its use in cats, dogs, horses, and birds to treat liver and gallbladder conditions is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. 

“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is ursodiol given?

• Ursodiol is given by mouth in the form of a capsule, tablet, or liquid suspension.
• It should be given with food.
• Measure liquid forms carefully.
• Do not give to rabbits, guinea pigs, or rodents.
• Do not give this medication with antacids that contain aluminum.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 days; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, and laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Ursodiol may cause the following side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Mild discomfort

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving ursodiol and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Tiredness
• Yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE ursodiol in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or other bile acid products
• Rabbits or other hindgut fermenters

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets that may have complications related to gallstones, such as biliary obstruction, cholecystitis, or pancreatitis
• Pets that are pregnant or lactating (safety has not been clearly established)
• Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with ursodiol, including:

• Aluminum-containing antacids
• Cholestyramine resin
• Taurine

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.

This medication may also interact with serum bile acid tests and may cause falsely elevated values.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will monitor your pet’s liver function by performing a liver panel before starting this medication and then routinely at one month, three months, and every six months thereafter.
• Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working by evaluating liver values and performing a liver and gallbladder ultrasound.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store ursodiol?

• Store this medication at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Protect from moisture and light.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.