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Ursodiol for Dogs & Cats: Treating Liver Disease & Gallstones
Ursodiol Tablets 250 mg, 30 count
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Pet Wellbeing Milk Thistle Natural Liver Disease Support Supplement for Cats, 2 fl. oz.
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PetAlive Immunity and Liver Support Veggie Capsules Herbal Supplement for Dogs, Count of 60
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ZESTY PAWS CHICKEN LIVER SUPPORT BITES FOR DOGS, 11.1 OZ., COUNT OF 90
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Fera Pets Liver Support Chicken Bone Broth Flavor for Dogs & Cats, 2.5 oz.
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Choleretic and bile acid used to treat chronic liver disease and cholesterol-containing gallstones in dogs and cats.
Summary
Used For:
Chronic liver disease, cholesterol-containing gallstones
Brands:
Actigall, Urso
Species:
Dogs and cats
Other names:
Ursodeoxycholic acid
Drug type:
Gastrointestinal
Prescription required:
Yes
Pregnancy and lactation:
Safety in pregnant or lactating animals has not been established.
Side effects:
Rare, well tolerated in cats and dogs
General description
Ursodiol is a bile acid used to treat chronic liver diseases and cholesterol-containing gallstones in dogs and cats. The use of ursodiol has not been proven to be beneficial in veterinary medicine, but studies are ongoing.
Uses
Chronic liver diseases and cholesterol-containing gallstones
How it works
Ursodiol suppresses the production of cholesterol by the liver and decreases intestinal absorption of cholesterol. This increases bile flow and reduces the toxic effects of bile on liver cells.
Dosage
Dogs: 10-15 milligrams per kilogram by mouth every 12-24 hours with food.
Cats: 10-15 milligrams per kilogram by mouth every 12-24 hours with food.
The medication dosages listed represent the variation in dosing for all underlying medical conditions.
Medications should only be administered to pets under the direct guidance of a veterinarian.
Forms
Ursodiol is available in 250 and 300 milligram capsules; 150, 250 and 500 milligram tablets; and 50 milligram per milliliter suspension to be given by mouth.
Storage information & handling
Ursodiol should be stored at room temperature in tight containers.
What results can I expect?
If the patient’s liver disease is responsive, ursodiol may slow the progression of the disease.
Missed Dosage
If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.
Overdose / acute toxicity
Severe overdose may cause diarrhea.
Side effects
*Rare, as ursodiol is well tolerated in dogs and cats.
Contraindications
*Do not use in animals with known hypersensitivity to bile acids.
*Do not use in cats with hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).
Drug interactions
Aluminum-containing antacids and cholestyramine resin may interact with ursodiol reducing its efficacy.
Precaution
Ursodiol should be used with caution in patients with:
- Persistent cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
- Biliary obstruction
- Gallstones
- Pancreatitis
Sources
Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook
Disclaimer
The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.