Ursodiol
(Redirected from Actigall)
| Drug monograph · NCLEX study reference | |
| Trade names | Actigall |
|---|---|
| Therapeutic class | Gallstone solubilizer, hepatoprotective |
| Pharmacologic class | Bile acid |
| Onset / peak / duration | Gallstone dissolution over months. |
| Half-life / level | Variable; no routine level. |
| Routes | PO (oral) |
| High-alert (ISMP) | No |
| Black box warning | None |
| Antidote / reversal | Not applicable. |
| Pregnancy / lactation | Use if needed. |
Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.
Ursodiol (brand name Actigall) — Gallstone solubilizer, hepatoprotective; Bile acid.
Identification
- Therapeutic class: Gallstone solubilizer, hepatoprotective.
- Pharmacologic class: Bile acid.
Pharmacology
- Mechanism of action: Reduces cholesterol content of bile to dissolve cholesterol gallstones and protect liver cells.
- Onset / peak / duration: Gallstone dissolution over months.
- Half-life / therapeutic level: Variable; no routine level.
Clinical use
- Indications: Cholesterol gallstones (when surgery is not chosen), primary biliary cholangitis, gallstone prevention with rapid weight loss.
- Usual dose, route, frequency: 8 to 15 mg/kg/day PO in divided doses.
- Maximum dose / adjustments: Per indication.
Safety
- Contraindications: Calcified or pigment gallstones, biliary obstruction, chronic liver disease in some cases.
- Black box warning: None.
- Interactions: Bile acid sequestrants and aluminum antacids reduce absorption; estrogens and cholesterol-lowering drugs may oppose effect.
- Pregnancy / lactation: Use if needed.
- High-alert: No.
Adverse effects
- Common side effects: Diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, nausea.
- Serious effects to report: Worsening liver symptoms, biliary pain.
- Antidote / reversal: Not applicable.
Nursing process
- Assessment before administration: LFTs, gallstone type, biliary symptoms.
- Interventions during therapy: Separate from sequestrants and aluminum antacids.
- Monitor: LFTs, gallstone imaging over time.
- Evaluation / expected outcome: Gallstone dissolution or improved liver markers.
Patient teaching
- Patient teaching: Long-term therapy; take consistently.
- Notify provider if: Severe right upper abdominal pain, jaundice.
- Administration tips: With food; space from interacting binders.