CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Fergus Allerton,
Medication: Ursodeoxycholic acid
Your cat has been prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid to help with digestion and liver health.
Key points: • This drug is not licensed for use in cats. Your veterinarian will advise you as to off-license use of this medication. • Toxic to rabbits and non-human primates. • Dosage: once daily.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Ursodeoxycholic acid (err-so-dee-ox-ee-koh-lik ah-sid).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing ursodeoxycholic acid.
Class of medication
- Bile acid.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid?
Your veterinarian has prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid to improve your pet’s liver health. Ursodeoxycholic acid occurs naturally in your pet’s bile and its roles include digestion, reducing the amount of cholesterol in your pet’s body, improving the flow of bile within the liver and protecting the liver from toxic injury from other bile salts.
How is the medication given?
Ursodeoxycholic acid is given orally, once daily. Follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions. Tablets can either be administered directly into your cat’s mouth or given with food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Vomiting has been reported as a possible side-effect. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible if you have any concerns so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required. Antacids, such as sucralfate, may interact with ursodeoxycholic acid and should be administered at least 30 mins before, or 2 h after ursodeoxycholic acid. Let your veterinarian know if your pet is on any other medications, including home remedies or herbal preparations.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Ursodeoxycholic acid should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused ursodeoxycholic acid safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Do not save ursodeoxycholic acid for future use or give to other pets. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period. If you accidentally double dose your pet with ursodeoxycholic acid then there are unlikely to be any consequences, but it is best to call your veterinarian for advice.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Ursodeoxycholic acid should only be given to the pet that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. Ursodeoxycholic acid is toxic to rabbits and non-human primates. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on ursodeoxycholic acid?
Your veterinarian will need to check your pet regularly to ensure that the drug is working safely and to comply with prescribing regulations.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on ursodeoxycholic acid can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.