Buy Generic Ursodiol Online

Generic Ursodiol Information

Introduction

Ursodiol (also written as ursodeoxycholic acid) is a bile‑acid derivative used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones and to treat certain cholestatic liver diseases. In Hong Kong the medication is classified under the “Gastro Health” and “Cholesterol” groups and is prescribed by hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and physicians managing liver disorders. The drug is supplied by several manufacturers worldwide; its active compound is Ursodiol.

What is Ursodiol?

Ursodiol is a synthetic, orally administered bile‑acid analogue. It belongs to the class of hepatoprotective agents that modify the composition of bile. The compound was originally isolated from bear bile and later chemically synthesized for medical use.

Ursodiol is the generic version of Actigall, Ursosan, and Urso, containing the same active compound Ursodiol. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option for patients in Hong Kong who need long‑term therapy.

How Ursodiol Works

Ursodiol

• Alters bile composition – It reduces the proportion of cholesterol in bile by decreasing hepatic secretion of cholesterol and increasing its solubility in the aqueous phase.
• Enhances gallstone dissolution – The more hydrophilic bile environment promotes gradual dissolution of cholesterol crystals, leading to reduction in gallstone size.
• Protects cholangiocytes – By stabilising cell membranes and reducing the toxic effect of hydrophobic bile acids, Ursodiol improves bile flow and lessens inflammation in cholestatic liver disease.

Therapeutic effects typically become evident after several weeks of consistent dosing, because gallstone dissolution is a gradual process. The drug is eliminated mainly via enterohepatic circulation with a half‑life of about 3–5 hours; liver function influences clearance.

Conditions Treated with Ursodiol

• Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) – Ursodiol is the first‑line therapy recommended by the Hong Kong Hospital Authority for slowing disease progression and improving liver biochemistry.
• Cholesterol Gallstone Disease – Indicated for patients with radiolucent cholesterol stones when surgery is contraindicated or as an adjunct to lithotripsy.
• Intra‑hepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) – Used off‑label in selected cases to reduce serum bile‑acid levels and relieve pruritus, under specialist supervision.
• Cystic Fibrosis–related Liver Disease – May improve cholestasis markers in pediatric and adult patients, though evidence is supportive rather than definitive.

Epidemiologically, gallstone prevalence in Hong Kong ranges from 5–10 % of adults, and PBC incidence is estimated at 1–2 per 100 000 population, underscoring the clinical relevance of Ursodiol in local practice.

Who is Ursodiol For?

• Adults with confirmed cholesterol gallstones who are unsuitable for cholecystectomy or who prefer a non‑surgical approach.
• Patients diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cholangitis at any stage, especially those with elevated alkaline phosphatase or bilirubin levels.
• Women experiencing severe pruritus from Intra‑hepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy, when obstetric evaluation deems medical therapy appropriate.
• Individuals with chronic cholestasis secondary to cystic fibrosis or drug‑induced liver injury, provided liver function allows safe use.

Ursodiol

Ursodiol is not recommended for patients with complete biliary obstruction, known hypersensitivity to bile‑acid derivatives, or severe hepatic impairment (Child‑Pugh C), as efficacy is limited and risk of accumulation increases.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Diarrhoea or loose stools (up to 15 % of patients).
• Nausea, abdominal discomfort, or dyspepsia.
• Mild elevation of serum transaminases during early therapy.

Rare

• Hepatocellular injury presenting as jaundice or markedly increased liver enzymes (reported in <1 % of users).
• Allergic skin reactions such as rash or pruritus.
• Gallstone recurrence after discontinuation, particularly if risk factors persist.

Serious

• Acute pancreatitis (very rare, <.1 %).
• Severe cholestatic hepatitis, especially when combined with other hepatotoxic drugs.
• Anaphylactoid reactions in individuals with severe bile‑acid intolerance.

Drug‑Drug Interactions

• Cyclosporine – Ursodiol may increase cyclosporine serum levels; monitor renal function and drug concentrations.
• Oral contraceptives – May reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraception; consider alternative methods.
• Statins – Concomitant use can increase the risk of hepatic enzyme elevation; periodic liver function monitoring is advised.

Patients should disclose all concurrent medications, including over‑the‑counter supplements, to their healthcare provider.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Typical adult dose for gallstone dissolution: 10–15 mg/kg body weight per day, divided into two oral doses with meals.
• PBC dosing: 13–15 mg/kg per day, usually administered as 5 mg tablets three times daily.
• Missed dose: Take the missed tablet as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose; do not double the dose.
• Overdose: Symptoms may include diarrhoea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. Seek medical attention; supportive care and gastrointestinal decontamination are the mainstays.
• Food & Alcohol: Ursodiol should be taken with meals to enhance absorption; moderate alcohol consumption is permissible but excessive intake may exacerbate liver injury.
• Comorbidities: Adjust dose or avoid in severe hepatic impairment (Child‑Pugh C) and in patients with intestinal malabsorption syndromes.

Buying Ursodiol from Our Online Pharmacy

Ursodiol can be purchased securely from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. Key advantages include:

• Affordable pricing – We source the generic product near manufacturer cost, offering a lower price than most local retail pharmacies.
• Verified quality – All batches are supplied by licensed overseas manufacturers that meet WHO‑GMP standards; we perform independent batch verification before dispatch.
• Guaranteed delivery – Discreet, reliable shipping with options for 7‑day express service or ~3‑week regular airmail, depending on your location.
• Online‑only access – Our pharmacy broker service partners with licensed overseas pharmacies, enabling patients to obtain international‑approved medications that may have limited local availability.
• Privacy‑focused – Packaging is unbranded and shipped in secure envelopes to protect patient confidentiality.

Our service is intended for individuals who have a valid prescription from a qualified health professional and who seek a cost‑effective alternative to commercial brand‑name products.

FAQ

• Can Ursodiol be used during lactation of the medication?
  Ursodiol is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. Current data do not indicate a risk to infants, but lactating mothers should consult their physician before continuing therapy.

• What does the tablet of Ursodiol look like?
  Generic Ursodiol tablets are usually white or off‑white, round or oval, and may be scored for splitting. Intra‑batch variations can occur depending on the manufacturer, but the imprint typically includes “Urs” or a numeric code for identification.

• Is cold storage required for Ursodiol tablets?
  No. Ursodiol tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature (15 °C–30 °C). Moisture, direct sunlight, and high humidity should be avoided, but refrigeration is not necessary.

• How long does it take for gallstones to dissolve with Ursodiol?
  Dissolution is a gradual process; clinically significant reduction in stone size often requires 6–12 months of continuous therapy, with periodic imaging to monitor progress.

• Are there differences between Ursodiol formulations in the US, EU, and Asia?
  The active ingredient is identical across regions, but excipients may vary. For example, some Asian formulations use lactose‑free binders, while certain US brands contain microcrystalline cellulose. These differences rarely affect efficacy but may be relevant for patients with specific allergies.

• Can I travel internationally with Ursodiol tablets?
  Yes, but keep the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Some countries require a doctor’s note for import of prescription drugs; check local customs regulations before departure.

• Does Ursodiol interfere with drug testing for employment?
  Ursodiol is not a prohibited substance and does not appear on standard occupational drug‑screen panels. However, if a specific bile‑acid assay is ordered, the presence of Ursodiol may be detected.

• What is the historical origin of Ursodiol?
  The compound was first isolated from bear bile used in traditional Asian medicine and later synthesized in the 195s by Japanese researchers. It received FDA approval for gallstone dissolution in 1978 and for PBC in 1994.

• How does Ursodiol compare with chenodeoxycholic acid for cholestasis?
  Ursodiol is more hydrophilic and better tolerated, with fewer gastrointestinal side‑effects. Chenodeoxycholic acid is more potent but carries a higher risk of hepatotoxicity, limiting its use primarily to specific indications.

• Is there a risk of drug‑induced liver injury when switching from brand‑name to generic Ursodiol?
  Generic Ursodiol contains the same active moiety; differences lie in inactive excipients. Most patients tolerate the switch without issue, though rare hypersensitivity to an excipient may occur. Monitoring liver enzymes after a formulation change is prudent.

• Can Ursodiol be combined with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) supplements from health stores?
  Over‑the‑counter UDCA supplements are not regulated for purity and may contain variable doses. Combining them with prescription Ursodiol can lead to inadvertent overdose. It is advisable to use only the prescribed pharmaceutical product.

Glossary

Bile Acid

A group of steroid‑derived molecules produced by the liver that aid in digestion and absorption of dietary fats.

Cholestasis

A condition where bile flow from the liver is reduced or stopped, leading to accumulation of bile components in the bloodstream.

Enterohepatic Circulation

The recycling process where bile acids secreted into the intestine are reabsorbed and returned to the liver.

Hydrophilic

Having an affinity for water; in pharmacology, a hydrophilic drug is more soluble in aqueous environments, affecting absorption and tolerance.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Ursodiol is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Ursodiol for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.