Obeticholic acid
Generic name: obeticholic acid [ oh-BET-i-KOE-lik-AS-id ]
Brand name: Ocaliva
Dosage form: oral tablet (10 mg; 5 mg)
Drug class:Miscellaneous GI agents
What is obeticholic acid?
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease that can destroy bile ducts in the liver and may lead to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver failure. PBC is a progressive disease that may have no symptoms for many years.
Obeticholic acid is used to treat PBC in adults who have not developed liver cirrhosis. Obeticholic acid is sometimes used with another drug called ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).
Obeticholic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Call your doctor at once if you have mood changes, severe itching, swelling, weight gain, trouble breathing, stomach pain, less urination, yellowing of your skin or eyes, bloody or tarry stools, or if you cough up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
You will need liver function tests and you may need to stop taking obeticholic acid based on the results. Do not stop the medicine without your doctor's advice.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use obeticholic acid if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
advanced cirrhosis of the liver; or
complete blockage of your bile ducts.
Your doctor will perform tests to make sure obeticholic acid is the right treatment for you. Tell your doctor if you've had liver problems, especially cirrhosis.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How should I take obeticholic acid?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take with or without food.
You may be given medication to prevent itching, a common side effect of obeticholic acid. Call your doctor if itching becomes severe.
You will need liver function tests and you may need to stop taking obeticholic acid based on the results, even if you have no symptoms.
Do not stop taking obeticholic acid without your doctor's advice.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take...
