Ursodeoxycholic Acid
Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?
Ursodeoxycholic acid is used in the treatment of chronic liver problems because it protects liver cells.
Ursodeoxycholic acid is not available as a veterinary preparation. This is also the case in Australia, however Australian veterinarians can prescribe this agents to dogs and cats with no further paper work required. Therefore I suggest you delete the following sentence: Your veterinary surgeon may ask you to sign a consent form so a preparation licensed for humans can be used to treat your pet.
How does this medicine work?
Ursodeoxycholic acid protects hepatocytes by displacing toxic hydrophobic bile acids. It also has choleretic and immunomodulatory properties.
How do I give this medication?
- Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian.
- READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
- Give this medication with food.
- Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
- DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
- Try not to miss giving any doses.
- DO NOT discontinue the medication without first checking with your veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian in advance if your pet needs a repeat prescription.
What if I miss giving a dose?
Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.
How do I store this medicine?
- Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
- Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Shake oral suspension well before use and do not use an open bottle after four months.
Potential side effects
- Side effects have been reported including skin rash and vomiting. Your veterinarian may need to monitor your pet's blood to check kidney function.
- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.
Possible drug interactions
- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Aug 2, 2015.
