Actigall

Pronounced: AK-ti-gawl
Generic name: Ursodiol
Other brand name: Urso 250

Why is Actigall prescribed?

Actigall is used to help dissolve certain kinds of gallstones. If you suffer from gallstones but do not want to undergo surgery to remove them, or if age, infirmity, or a poor reaction to anesthesia makes you a poor candidate for surgery, Actigall treatment may be a good alternative.

Actigall is also used to prevent gallstones in people on rapid-weight-loss diets. And under the brand name Urso 250, its active ingredient is prescribed to treat liver disease caused by hardening and blockage of the bile ducts (primary biliary cirrhosis).

Most important fact about Actigall

Actigall is not a quick remedy. It takes months of Actigall therapy to dissolve gallstones; and there is a possibility of incomplete dissolution and recurrence of stones. Your doctor will weigh Actigall against alternative treatments and recommend the best one for you.

Actigall is most effective if your gallstones are small or "floatable" (high in cholesterol). In addition, your gallbladder must still be functioning properly.

How should you take Actigall?

Take Actigall exactly as prescribed; otherwise the gallstones may dissolve too slowly or not dissolve at all. During treatment, your doctor will do periodic ultrasound exams to see if your stones are dissolving.

Urso should be taken 4 times a day with food.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember, or at the same time as the next dose.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Actigall.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, allergy, arthritis, back pain, bronchitis, chest pain, constipation, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, gas, hair loss, headache, high blood sugar, indigestion, insomnia, joint pain, menstrual pain, muscle and bone pain, nasal inflammation, nausea, sinus inflammation, skin rash, sore throat, stomach or intestinal disorder, stomach ulcer, upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, viral infection, vomiting