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I'm on Urso for PBC. NHS consultant in Scotland said my bloods are normal and only 1 in 20 this happens. Is this a good thing?

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Scotland uk
November 10, 2025
 · 
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myPBCteam

Is having normal blood results on Urso a good thing?

Yes, this is excellent news! Having normal blood test results while on Urso (ursodiol) means you're having a complete response to treatment, which happens in about 25-30% of people with PBC - so your consultant's "1 in 20" might be slightly conservative.

A complete Show Full Answer

Is having normal blood results on Urso a good thing?

Yes, this is excellent news! Having normal blood test results while on Urso (ursodiol) means you're having a complete response to treatment, which happens in about 25-30% of people with PBC - so your consultant's "1 in 20" might be slightly conservative.

A complete response means:
- PBC isn't progressing to the next stage
- All your liver function tests are normal
- You're responding very well to the medication

People who respond this well to ursodiol typically have a life expectancy similar to people without PBC. Those who show good response within the first six months to two years usually have a better long-term outlook.

Your consultant is essentially telling you that you're in the best-case scenario for PBC treatment. Keep taking your Urso as prescribed and continue with regular monitoring to maintain these great results.

It's worth noting that while Urso helps with liver protection and disease progression, it typically doesn't help with itching if you experience that symptom.

November 10, 2025
A myPBCteam Member

Thank you very much for your reply, Emily. It is very reassuring and has cheered me up on this dull and rainy Scottish morning.

November 12, 2025
A myPBCteam Member

I had very abnormal liver enzymes with Alk phosphate over 200 33 years ago. I started on URso (Actigal) 300 mg in less than 4 months all my enzymes were in normal limits. My itching stopped completely and I felt awesome for over 2 decades. My Alk phos was the only enzyme that raised. 8 years ago my Alk Phos went to 200 again and they added Ocaliva 5 mg and my Alk Phos came back down to 130s now in December I will no longer have Ocaliva so I will be changing out my medication plan. I have lived with PBC for 33 years. By Biopsy 33 years ago stated I was in Stage 2 PBC. So it is possible to stay well for years. I keep my weight normal and exercise daily. I eat organic and I am careful with my diet. I’ve had eaten an eaten a Mediterranean diet for ages. And I avoid toxins. (Before it was fashionable 🤪)

All this is to say it’s possible to have normal enzymes on meds. They are working!! Keep up the good work and live your life to the fullest.

November 11, 2025

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