Cholic Acid
Zellweger Syndrome
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Bile Acid
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Cholic acid is used to treat bile acid synthesis disorders and peroxisomal disorders, which are conditions affecting the liver's ability to process fats. It helps improve liver function and reduce symptoms like jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Cholic acid works by helping your body produce bile acids, which are essential for digesting fats. It acts like adding a missing ingredient to a recipe, enabling the liver to function properly by providing necessary components to process fats.
Cholic acid is usually taken once or twice daily with food to aid absorption. The specific dose is determined by your doctor based on your condition. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and not to double up on doses if you miss one.
Common side effects of cholic acid include diarrhea and abdominal pain, which are usually mild. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, it's important to contact your doctor to determine if they are related to the medication.
Cholic acid can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are necessary. It's not suitable for people with complete biliary obstruction, which is a blockage in the bile duct. Always inform your doctor about any allergies or other medications you are taking.
Indications and Purpose
How does cholic acid work?
Cholic acid works by helping your body produce bile acids, which are essential for digesting fats. Think of it like adding a missing ingredient to a recipe. This medication helps your liver function properly by providing the necessary components to process fats. These effects make cholic acid helpful for people with bile acid synthesis disorders and peroxisomal disorders.
Is cholic acid effective?
Cholic acid is effective for treating bile acid synthesis disorders and peroxisomal disorders, which are conditions affecting the liver's ability to process fats. It helps improve liver function and reduce symptoms associated with these disorders. Clinical studies support its effectiveness in managing these conditions. Always follow your doctor's instructions to achieve the best results with cholic acid.
What is cholic acid?
Cholic acid is a medication used to treat bile acid synthesis disorders and peroxisomal disorders, which affect the liver's ability to process fats. It works by helping your body produce bile acids, which are essential for digesting fats. Cholic acid is used alone or as a complementary addition to other therapies to improve liver function and reduce symptoms associated with these disorders.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take cholic acid?
Cholic acid is usually a long-term medication for managing chronic conditions like bile acid synthesis disorders. You'll typically take cholic acid every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your conditions to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your cholic acid treatment.
How do I dispose of cholic acid?
If you can, bring unused cholic acid to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take cholic acid?
Take cholic acid as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. It's best to take it with food to help with absorption. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for cholic acid to start working?
Cholic acid begins working in your body shortly after you take it. However, you may not notice all the benefits right away. For bile acid synthesis disorders, improvements in liver function tests may take several weeks to appear. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and specific condition. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store cholic acid?
Store cholic acid at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Don't store your medicine in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store cholic acid out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing.
What is the usual dose of cholic acid?
The usual starting dose of cholic acid for adults is typically determined by your doctor based on your specific condition. It's usually taken once or twice daily with food. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs. If you have any questions about your dose, consult your healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
Can cholic acid be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Cholic acid's safety during breastfeeding isn't well-established. We don't have much information about whether this medication passes into human breast milk. If you're taking cholic acid and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help determine the best approach for your situation.
Can cholic acid be taken safely while pregnant?
Cholic acid's safety during pregnancy isn't well-established. Limited data is available, so it's important to weigh the benefits and risks with your doctor. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the safest way to manage your condition with your doctor. They can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take cholic acid with other prescription drugs?
Cholic acid may interact with certain medications, such as bile acid sequestrants, which are used to lower cholesterol. These interactions can reduce the effectiveness of cholic acid. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Your doctor can help adjust your treatment plan to ensure it remains safe and effective.
Does cholic acid have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. With cholic acid, common adverse effects include diarrhea and abdominal pain. These effects are usually mild. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include liver problems. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to cholic acid and suggest appropriate actions.
Does cholic acid have any safety warnings?
Cholic acid has important safety warnings. It can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are necessary. If you experience symptoms like jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe abdominal pain, contact your doctor immediately. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new or worsening symptoms.
Is cholic acid addictive?
Cholic acid is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. It works by helping your body process fats, which doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that cholic acid doesn't carry this risk.
Is cholic acid safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more vulnerable to the side effects of cholic acid, such as liver problems and stomach upset. It's important for older adults to have regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor their health while taking this medication. Your doctor can help determine the best approach for using cholic acid safely in elderly patients.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking cholic acid?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking cholic acid. Alcohol can affect liver function, which is important when taking this medication. Drinking alcohol may worsen side effects like stomach upset. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for any unusual symptoms. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking cholic acid.
Is it safe to exercise while taking cholic acid?
You can exercise while taking cholic acid, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can cause stomach upset, which might make you feel uncomfortable during exercise. To exercise safely, listen to your body and rest if you feel any discomfort. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine while taking cholic acid, but check with your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop cholic acid?
Cholic acid is usually taken long-term for chronic conditions. Stopping it suddenly can cause your condition to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before stopping cholic acid. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
What are the most common side effects of cholic acid?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of cholic acid include diarrhea and abdominal pain. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild. If you notice new symptoms after starting cholic acid, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking cholic acid?
Don't take cholic acid if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Cholic acid shouldn't be used by people with complete biliary obstruction, which is a blockage in the bile duct. Always consult your doctor about these concerns before starting cholic acid.
