UDCA stands for ursodeoxycholic acid, also commonly called ursodiol. It's the first-line treatment prescribed for PBC and is a naturally occurring bile acid that helps the liver work better.
Here's what UDCA does:
- Helps move bile through the liver into the small intestine
- Reduces toxic bile acid buildup
- Lowers liver Show Full Answer
UDCA stands for ursodeoxycholic acid, also commonly called ursodiol. It's the first-line treatment prescribed for PBC and is a naturally occurring bile acid that helps the liver work better.
Here's what UDCA does:
- Helps move bile through the liver into the small intestine
- Reduces toxic bile acid buildup
- Lowers liver inflammation and damage
- Helps reduce liver scarring (fibrosis)
- May delay or prevent the need for a liver transplant UDCA is effective in more than half of people with PBC, and those who respond well — especially in the first 6 months to 2 years — tend to have a better outlook. Starting it early makes a real difference.
It's worth knowing that UDCA is generally taken for life once started. Like all medications, UDCA does come with some potential side effects to watch for:
- Weight gain
- Hair loss
- Diarrhea
About 5–10% of people with PBC can't tolerate it. If UDCA isn't working well enough or causes problems, there are newer approved options available, such as elafibranor (Iqirvo) and seladelpar (Livdelzi). Always speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment.
April 26
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