Chenodal
Generic name:chenodiol (chenodeoxycholic acid) [ KEE-noe-DYE-ol ]
Drug class:Gallstone solubilizing agents
What is Chenodal?
Chenodal is made from bile acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the body.
Chenodal is used to dissolve gallstones in people who cannot have gallbladder surgery.
Chenodal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use Chenodal if you have liver disease, cirrhosis, or certain conditions that cause an obstruction in your digestive system.
Chenodal can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Chenodal if you are allergic to it, or if:
you are pregnant;
you have a bile duct obstruction or other disorder;
you have pancreatitis related to your gallstones;
you have cirrhosis or other liver disease; or
you have a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines).
To make sure Chenodal is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have a history of liver problems or jaundice.
Do not use Chenodal if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby or cause birth defects. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine.
It is not known whether chenodiol passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.
How should I take Chenodal?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take Chenodal in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Chenodal is usually taken 2 times each day until your gallstones are completely dissolved. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Chenodal is usually given for no longer than 2 years.
Use Chenodal regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
It may take up to 12 months before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 6 months of treatment.
While using Chenodal, you may need frequent blood tests. You may also need an occasional ultrasound or x-ray examination of your gallbladder.
Chenodal is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include weight control and a special diet. Follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutritio...
