Like humans, dogs can develop liver disease and gallstones. Many dogs experience hepatobiliary conditions that require medication, and gallstones and other liver ailments can have a big impact on a dog’s health and well-being.
That’s where ursodiol comes in. Ursodiol is a naturally occurring bile acid often prescribed by vets to manage these conditions.
This article will cover everything you need to know about ursodiol in dogs, including its uses, dosage, precautions, and potential side effects.
What is Ursodiol?
Ursodiol, also known as ursodeoxycholic acid or UDCA, is a manufactured version of a bile acid that occurs naturally in the body. It’s prescribed to encourage bile flow and prevent toxic bile acids from accumulating in the liver.
Ursodiol also lowers cholesterol production and absorption. This medication is available in capsule and tablet form.
Why is ursodiol prescribed in veterinary medicine?
Ursodiol is often prescribed to treat a variety of liver and gallbladder conditions in dogs.
Treatment of liver disease
Veterinarians rely on ursodiol to manage hepatobiliary conditions such as chronic hepatitis and fatty liver disease. Ursodiol can protect liver cells from further damage and help the liver to heal more quickly.
Treatment of gallstones
Ursodiol helps dissolve gallstones that are made of cholesterol. It also reduces the body’s synthesis and absorption of cholesterol, which can prevent new gallstones from forming.
How do I give my dog ursodiol?
The typical dose of ursodiol for dogs ranges from 2.5 to 7 mg per pound of body weight, given twice a day. You should always follow your vet’s directions, as they may differ from this standard.
Give ursodiol to your dog orally, along with a meal. This can help prevent stomach upset.
If you miss a dose, give it to your dog as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Don’t give your dog a double dose.
Precautions for Using Ursodiol
Ursodiol isn’t right for every dog.
Don’t give ursodiol to dogs with:
- biliary obstruction
- biliary fistula
- certain types of gallstones
- complications from pancreatitis
Also, avoid giving ursodiol to rabbits or other hindgut fermenters.
If your dog has chronic liver disease, your veterinarian may want to monitor them closely while they’re taking ursodiol.
Call your vet right away if your dog develops any unusual symptoms or their condition worsens.
What are the side effects of ursodiol in dogs?
Like any medication, ursodiol can cause side effects. The most common are:
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
Although rare, more serious side effects can occur. In some instances, ursodiol has been linked to increased liver disease.
Allergic reactions are also possible. If your dog develops hives, swelling, or has difficulty breathing, seek immediate veterinary care.
If you notice any side effects that persist or worsen, contact your veterinarian.
Known Drug Interactions With Ursodiol
Ursodiol can interact with some other common medications. This includes estrogens, acetaminophen, antacids, and cholestyramine resin.
Always tell your veterinarian about everything your dog takes, including vitamins, supplements, and prescription and over-the-counter medications.
How to store and dispose of ursodiol
- Storage: Keep ursodiol at room temperature, in a tightly sealed container.
- Disposal: If you discontinue treatment, you can dispose of any remaining medication in your household trash.
Wrapping Up
Ursodiol is a helpful medication for dogs with liver disease or gallstones. It can improve your dog’s quality of life, but it is essential to work with your veterinarian to get the diagnosis, dosing, and monitoring just right.
And as with any medication, be sure to give Ursodiol as directed and store and dispose of it properly to protect your pet.