ursodil -sr tablet - Ursodeoxycholic Acid (500mg) medicine

Ursodil-SR Tablet: Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 25, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for primary biliary cholangitis and cholesterol gallstone dissolution.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Severe abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Extreme fatigue or weakness

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is ursodil -sr tablet used for?

This medicine contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid 500 mg, used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones and treat chronic liver diseases like primary biliary cholangitis. It works by reducing cholesterol in bile and protecting liver cells.

  • Generic Name: Ursodeoxycholic Acid (500mg)
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 ursodil -sr tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से पित्ताशय की पथरी को घोलने और पुरानी लिवर बीमारियों जैसे प्राइमरी बिलियरी कोलैंगाइटिस के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह पित्त में कोलेस्ट्रॉल को कम करके और लिवर की कोशिकाओं की रक्षा करके काम करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, दस्त, पेट में असहजता और उल्टी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन लिवर की समस्या बढ़ सकती है, जिससे त्वचा या आंखें पीली हो सकती हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे पानी के साथ निगलें, चबाएं नहीं। भोजन के साथ लेने से पेट की परेशानी कम हो सकती है। नियमित रूप से लिवर फंक्शन टेस्ट कराएं। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। शराब से बचें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 ursodil -sr tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Cholesterol gallstones","description":"Used to dissolve small, radiolucent cholesterol gallstones in patients who cannot undergo surgery or who have mild symptoms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Primary biliary cholangitis","description":"Improves liver biochemistry and delays progression of this chronic autoimmune liver disease.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Primary sclerosing cholangitis","description":"May be used off-label to improve liver enzymes, though evidence for long-term benefit is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy","description":"Helps relieve itching and improve liver function in pregnant women with this condition.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Cystic fibrosis-related liver disease","description":"May improve bile flow and liver function in some patients with cystic fibrosis.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis","description":"Sometimes prescribed to improve liver enzymes, but evidence for significant benefit is lacking.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Biliary dyskinesia","description":"Occasionally used to relieve symptoms of bile flow dysfunction, but evidence is insufficient.","evidence":"Insufficient"}]

Primary treatment for: Cholesterol gallstones

Also treats: Primary biliary cholangitis, Primary sclerosing cholangitis, Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, Cystic fibrosis-related liver disease

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Ursodeoxycholic Acid (500mg)
Brand Nameursodil -sr tablet
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGASTRO INTESTINAL
Action ClassHepatoprotectives
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with meals to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.
2
Attend regular follow-up appointments for liver function tests and ultrasound monitoring.
3
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
4
Inform your doctor if you are taking antacids or bile acid sequestrants, as they can reduce the effectiveness of this medicine.
5
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to protect your liver.
6
Report any unusual symptoms such as yellowing of eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue immediately.
7
Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support liver health and overall well-being.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Right upper abdominal pain
This medicine may be prescribed for gallstones causing this symptom.
Likely Use
✅
Itching due to cholestasis
This medicine is used to relieve itching in liver cholestasis.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Headache
This medicine is not used for headaches.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is absorbed from the small intestine after oral administration. Absorption is efficient, but the exact bioavailability varies depending on the formulation and individual factors.
DistributionThis medicine is distributed primarily to the liver and bile, where it exerts its therapeutic effects. It also enters the enterohepatic circulation.
Protein BindingThis medicine is highly bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is metabolized in the liver to its taurine and glycine conjugates, which are also pharmacologically active. It undergoes enterohepatic circulation.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 3.5 to 5.8 days.
ExcretionThis medicine is primarily excreted in the feces via bile, with a small amount excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityThe bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 90% when taken orally.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for gallstone dissolution may take several months of continuous therapy. For liver conditions, improvement in liver enzymes may be seen within weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of this medicine are reached approximately 1 to 3 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action of this medicine is not well defined, but its effects on bile composition persist as long as the medicine is taken regularly.

How It Works

This medicine works by replacing hydrophobic bile acids in the bile acid pool with the more hydrophilic ursodeoxycholic acid. This reduces cholesterol absorption from the intestine, decreases cholesterol secretion into bile, and disperses cholesterol in bile, making it less likely to form stones. It also protects liver cells from the toxic effects of retained bile acids and stimulates bile flow, which helps flush out bile and reduce cholestasis.

Mechanism Steps

1
Replacement of hydrophobic bile acids: This medicine replaces toxic, hydrophobic bile acids in the bile acid pool, reducing their damaging effects on liver cells.
2
Reduction of cholesterol secretion: It decreases the amount of cholesterol secreted into bile by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver and reducing intestinal absorption.
3
Dispersion of cholesterol in bile: It helps disperse cholesterol in bile, preventing it from crystallizing and forming gallstones.
4
Stimulation of bile flow: It promotes bile flow, which helps flush out bile acids and reduces cholestasis.
5
Protection of liver cells: It stabilizes liver cell membranes and protects them from the toxic effects of retained bile acids.

💡 How to Take ursodil -sr tablet

Strength: Ursodeoxycholic Acid 500 mg immediate-release tablet.

1Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
2Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
3Take with meals to reduce stomach upset.
4Take at the same times each day to maintain consistent levels.
5If you are also taking antacids or bile acid sequestrants, take this medicine at least 2 hours before or after them.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine for dissolving gallstones is 8-10 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into 2-3 doses. For primary biliary cholangitis, the typical dose is 13-15 mg per kg per day, divided into 2-4 doses. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not adjust the dose without consulting your doctor.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients, but they should be monitored closely for liver function and side effects. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is needed for patients with kidney impairment. However, consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with severe liver impairment, this medicine should be used with caution. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed 20 mg per kg of body weight unless directed by a specialist. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With meals
Take with food
Improves absorption and reduces stomach upset.
High-fiber foods
Separate by 2 hours
Fiber can bind to this medicine and reduce its absorption.
Aluminum-containing antacids
Separate by 2 hours
Aluminum can bind to this medicine and reduce its absorption.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of ursodil -sr tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (1-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (1-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Stomach discomfort (Common (1-10%))
Take with meals. If discomfort continues, speak to your doctor.
Vomiting (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Report to your doctor if vomiting is severe or prevents you from keeping the medicine down.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Worsening of liver function (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency help if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Gallstone calcification (Rare (<0.1%))
Report to your doctor if you experience worsening abdominal pain; surgery may be needed.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hair thinning
Consult your doctor if concerned; usually reversible.
Skin rash
Report to your doctor; may require discontinuation.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Aluminum-based antacids Major
Cholestyramine Major
Cyclosporine Major
Ciprofloxacin Moderate
Nitrendipine Moderate
Dapsone Moderate
Oral contraceptives Minor
Rosuvastatin Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Aluminum-based antacids
  • Cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam
  • Cyclosporine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Ciprofloxacin
  • Nitrendipine
  • Dapsone

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of liver problems while taking this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol or limit its consumption. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Acute inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts","Complete blockage of the bile ducts","Severe liver failure","Calcified or large gallstones that cannot be dissolved","Hypersensitivity to ursodeoxycholic acid or any component of the tablet"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dose.","Inform your doctor if you have any liver disease, as dose adjustment may be needed.","Regular monitoring of liver function is essential during treatment.","This medicine may not be effective for all types of gallstones; follow-up imaging is necessary.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of liver problems.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.","Do not use this medicine for weight loss or other unapproved purposes."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose with this medicine is unlikely to cause serious effects. However, if you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without medical advice. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it. You may take it with or without food, but taking it with meals may help reduce stomach upset. Attend all scheduled blood tests to monitor your liver function and cholesterol levels. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase the risk of liver problems. Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can assess how well the medicine is working. Store the tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended. No specific dose adjustment is usually needed, but consult your doctor for personalized advice.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is considered safe in pregnancy when prescribed, but your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently undergone surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It is generally safe to continue, but your doctor may adjust the dose based on your condition.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. No specific precautions are usually needed, but it is important for your dentist to know your complete medication history.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of gallstones.
🥗
Eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet to support liver health.
😴
Stay physically active with regular exercise.
💧
Avoid alcohol to protect your liver.
🧘
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to help your body recover.
🚭
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine does not usually affect your ability to exercise. However, if you have gallstones or liver disease, consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen. Avoid strenuous activities if you experience abdominal pain or fatigue.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains over refined grains.
Limit saturated and trans fats.
Avoid fried and processed foods.
Stay well hydrated.
Consider small, frequent meals to ease digestion.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or fatigue, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your condition and response. If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately; they may advise you to stop.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe and well-tolerated. Regular monitoring of liver function and gallstone status is necessary. In some cases, prolonged use may lead to gallstone calcification, making them resistant to dissolution. It may also cause mild hair thinning. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding duration of treatment.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Surgery (cholecystectomy)

Removal of the gallbladder is a definitive treatment for symptomatic gallstones.

Evidence: Well-established
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy

Uses shock waves to break up gallstones, but not suitable for all patients.

Evidence: Moderate
Lifestyle modifications

Diet and exercise can help prevent gallstones and support liver health.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry your medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight and moisture. If crossing time zones, continue taking your doses at the same intervals as prescribed; you may need to adjust timing gradually. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Always pack enough supply for your entire trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 52-year-old woman with primary biliary cholangitis
She was diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis after experiencing persistent itching and fatigue. Her doctor prescribed this medicine at 13 mg per kg per day. Within three months, her liver enzymes improved significantly, and the itching reduced. She continues to take it regularly and attends follow-up appointments every six months.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and regular monitoring are key to managing chronic liver conditions with this medicine.
👤 A 45-year-old man with cholesterol gallstones
He had multiple small cholesterol gallstones but was not a candidate for surgery due to other health issues. His doctor started him on this medicine. After eight months of treatment, an ultrasound showed that the stones had dissolved completely. He maintained a low-fat diet and took the medicine with meals as directed.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can effectively dissolve small cholesterol gallstones when taken consistently for several months, but patience and adherence are essential.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: For gallstone dissolution, it may take several months to years depending on the size of the stones. For liver conditions, improvement in liver enzymes may be seen within weeks.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food, but taking it with meals is recommended to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: This medicine is considered safe for use in pregnancy when prescribed by a doctor, especially for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine suddenly?

A: No, do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may cause your condition to worsen or gallstones to recur.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for ursodil -sr tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can dissolve all types of gallstones.
    Fact: It is only effective for small, cholesterol-rich gallstones that are not calcified.
  • Myth: This medicine is a painkiller.
    Fact: It is not a painkiller; it works by dissolving gallstones and improving liver function.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You should only stop if your doctor advises, as stopping early may cause gallstones to recur or liver condition to worsen.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Ursodeoxycholic Acid 500 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Ursodil -SR Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Ursodeoxycholic Acid","class":"Bile acid","primary_use":"Gallstone dissolution, PBC","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Chenodeoxycholic acid","class":"Bile acid","primary_use":"Gallstone dissolution","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Obeticholic acid","class":"FXR agonist","primary_use":"Primary biliary cholangitis","route":"Oral"}]

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