Actigall (Ursodiol) is an oral gallstone solubilizing agent intended for dissolution of radiolucent gallstones. It also is used to treat primary biliary cirrhosis. This agent is a naturally occurring bile acid, found in small quantities in normal human bile, that suppresses hepatic synthesis, secretion of cholesterol, and the intestinal absorption of cholesterol.

Actigall is a bile acid. The drug helps dissolve gallstones in those people who cannot have gallbladder surgery or who do not need the surgery. Ursodiol may also be used with a procedural device that fragments the gallstone into smaller pieces; the procedure, known as lithotripsy, and it allows the drug to dissolve the stones more quickly. It is also useful for certain liver diseases of adults, children and infants; the drug reduces itching and other symptoms.

Actigall Dosage

For Dissolving Gallstones, the recommended daily dosage is 8 to 10 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into 2 or 3 doses.

For Preventing Gallstones, the usual dose in people losing weight rapidly is 300 milligrams twice a day.

Uses of Actigall

Ursodiol is used to prevent and treat the formation of certain types of gallstones or for liver disease.

Ursodiol may also be used for other conditions those listed in this medication guide. Side Effects of Actigall

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.

Side effects may include:

o Abdominal pain o Back pain o Bronchitis o Constipation o Coughing o Diarrhea o Gas o Headache o High blood pressure and sugar o Indigestion o Itchy spots o Joint pain o Muscle pain o Nausea o Sinus inflammation or infection o Sore throat o Upper respiratory tract infection o Viral infection o Vomiting o Weakness

Warnings and precautions before taking Actigall

Although Actigall is not known to cause liver damage, it is theoretically possible in some people. Your doctor may run blood tests for liver function before you start to take Actigall and again while you are taking it.

If you have any allergies to any drugs, then you should tell your doctor.

Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have certain gallbladder/bile duct problems such as acute cholecystitis, cholangitis, biliary obstruction, gallstone pancreatitis.

This drug may make you dizzy. So you should use caution while driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.