Indications: dissolution of cholesterol gallstones, hyperlipidaemia, primary biliary cirrhosis.

Cautions: Patients with variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites or in need of an urgent liver transplant should receive appropriate specific treatment. Contra-indications: radio-opaque stones, pregnancy, non- functioning gall bladder, inflammatory diseases and other conditions of small intestinal, colon and liver which interfere with enterohepatic circulation of bile salts.

Drug Interactions: absorption of bile acids possibly reduced by antacids and by lipid – regulating drugs, ursodeoxycholic acid increases absorption of cyclosporine.

Side effect: Constipation; diarrhea; dry skin; gas; headache; indigestion; metallic taste; muscle or joint pain; nausea; skin rash; stomach pain; swelling; tiredness.

Dose: In dissolution of gallstones, 8-12 mg/kg daily as a single dose at bedtime or in two divided doses, for up to 2 years, treatment is continued for 3-4 months after stones dissolve.

In treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis, 13-15 mg/kg/day administered in two to four divided doses with food. Dosing regimen should be adjusted according to each patient’s need at the discretion of the physician.