Urso is a prescription medication that contains ursodeoxycholic acid as its sole active ingredient. Ursodeoxycholic acid belongs to the class of bile-acid derivatives and is used to improve liver and gall-bladder function. In Hong Kong, Urso is available as oral pill formulations in strengths of 150 mg and 300 mg and is regulated under the Medicines Ordinance (Department of Health). It is prescribed by physicians for specific liver-related conditions and is not available over the counter.
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a naturally occurring, hydrophilic bile acid. Its therapeutic actions stem from several mechanisms:
These actions collectively improve bile composition, promote bile flow, and protect liver tissue, which explains its use in conditions where bile secretion is impaired.
Urso is approved by the Hong Kong Department of Health for the following indications:
These indications are based on clinical evidence that UDCA improves liver-enzyme profiles, slows disease progression in PBC, and can gradually dissolve small cholesterol stones when used for an extended period (often ≥ 6 months).
While not formally approved for the following conditions, peer-reviewed studies have explored UDCA’s potential benefits:
Off-label use requires medical supervision and individualized risk assessment.
If you take multiple prescription or over-the-counter products, inform your healthcare provider before starting Urso.
Dosing must always be individualized by the prescribing clinician, especially in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
If laboratory values worsen or new symptoms emerge, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
This article provides educational information about Urso and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
Yes, UDCA does not significantly affect the metabolism of statins or other lipid-lowering agents. However, both drug classes can influence liver enzymes, so periodic monitoring of liver-function tests is advisable.
Dissolution is gradual; many patients see a reduction in stone size after 6-12 months of continuous therapy. Complete resolution may require longer treatment, and not all stones respond.
For mild renal dysfunction (eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min), standard dosing is usually acceptable. In moderate to severe impairment, dose reduction and closer monitoring are recommended.
Mild pruritus is a common side effect. Over-the-counter moisturisers or antihistamines may help. If itching becomes severe or is accompanied by rash, contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.
Yes, the 300 mg tablet is scored and can be safely split in half to provide a 150 mg dose when required.
There is limited evidence of a direct interaction, but both UDCA and milk thistle affect liver metabolism. Inform your provider about any herbal products you use.
No clinically significant interaction has been documented between UDCA and combined hormonal contraceptives. Nevertheless, maintain routine contraceptive counseling with your clinician.
Urso is a prescription-only medication in Hong Kong. Carry the original prescription label and a copy of the prescription when traveling, and check the destination country's medication import rules.
Pediatric dosing differs from adult regimens and must be calculated based on body weight. Urso is prescribed off-label for certain pediatric cholestatic conditions, but only under specialist supervision.
Urso is a brand-name formulation that contains the same active ingredient-ursodeoxycholic acid-as generic versions. Differences may lie in inactive excipients, tablet appearance, or manufacturer, but therapeutic effect should be equivalent when dosed correctly.
