Actigall is a prescription medication that is used to treat primary biliary cirrhosis and to dissolve small gallstones. Actigall contains ursodeoxycholic acid and works by decreasing the amount of cholesterol that the liver produces and the intestines absorb. Actigall also dissolves the cholesterol that has formed stones in the gallbladder.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Actigall should be taken with food.
• Swallow Actigall whole with a glass of water.
• Actigall tablets should be scored down the middle. Break the tablet in half if necessary, to take the correct dose. Keep split tablets separate from whole tablets.
• Your doctor may want you to take regular blood tests, liver function tests and gallbladder ultrasound exams while taking Actigall.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of liver or gallbladder obstructions or coughing up blood.
• If you have gained weight rapidly, especially to your midsection or to your face.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• If you are breast-feeding.

Common side effects of Actigall include but are not limited to:

• Headaches.
• Dizziness.
• Cold symptoms including sore throat, sneezing or stuffy nose.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Mild itching.
• Rashes.
• Hair loss.
• Mild stomach pain or discomfort.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of ursodeoxycholic acid.

• Signs of infection including fever, skin sores, mouth sores, trouble swallowing, sore throat, chills, sudden weakness or an ill-feeling.
• Signs of a liver problem such as upper stomach pain, tiredness, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice, nausea, itching or loss of appetite.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Actigall?

If you miss a dose of Actigall, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What else is Actigall called?

Actigall is also known as Urso internationally. Urso is the same brand name medication with a different name internationally and is not a generic alternative medication. Generic Actigall is called ursodeoxycholic acid.