Prohibited during pregnancy
Prohibited during breastfeeding
Prohibited for children
Has restrictions for older people
Prohibited for liver problems
Prohibited for kidney problems
The main active component of the drug Ursosan is ursodeoxycholic acid. It is produced in the form of capsules and is prescribed for the following disorders:
- cholelithiasis (if the bladder has not lost its functionality and the size of the stone is no more than 1.5 centimeters);
- gastritis with increased acidity of gastric juice, which is accompanied by severe heartburn;
- biliary cirrhosis (if the pathology is in the decompensated phase).
Ursodeoxycholic acid affects cholesterol levels in liver cells and accelerates catabolism in the liver and intestines. When acid and cholesterol interact, compounds are formed that effectively dissolve calcium-cholesterol stones in the gallstones and remove them outside the body, which helps lower the cholate-cholesterol index.
General information about the drug
The medication is not prescribed for the following reasons:
- allergy to the composition of the medicine;
- obstruction of bile acids through the bile ducts;
- decreased contractility of the organ;
- inflammation in liver cells and gallbladder;
- impaired functionality of the kidneys and liver;
- formation of calcified stones and colic in the organ;
- inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract;
- cholestasis;
- hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.
The drug is not prescribed in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy and the lactation period. If you need to take medication during lactation, then you need to cancel lactation and transfer the newborn to artificial feeding. If a patient cannot be treated with Ursosan for various reasons, then the doctor prescribes analogues of the drug.
pharmachologic effect
Manufacturer: PRO.
MED. CS Praha, Czech Republic Release form: capsules, tablets
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Ursoliv, Grinterol, Ursodez, Urdoxa, Livodex
Ursosan, Ursocaps, Ursodex, Ursodiolysin
Ursosan belongs to the group of hepatoprotective agents. A medicine based on ursodeoxycholic acid has the following actions and effects:
- protection of liver cells from toxins and other damaging factors, restoration of their structure;
- choleretic:
- immunomodulatory;
- lowering cholesterol levels;
- dissolution of gallstones.
By normalizing metabolic processes in the body, the drug can cause a decrease in blood glucose levels.
Comparison of rating participants by main indicators
Name | average cost | Active substance | Manufacturer country |
Ursosan | 1620 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg) | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Czech Republic |
The best analogues of Ursosan based on ursodeoxycholic acid | |||
Ursofalk | 1720 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg) | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Germany |
Grinterol | 1415 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg) | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Latvia |
Urdoxa | 1520 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg) | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Russia |
Ursodez | 1050 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg) | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Russia |
exhol | 1220 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg) | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Russia |
The best analogues of Ursosan with similar effects | |||
Phosphoglyph Urso | 840 rub. (50 caps. 35+250 mg) | Glycyrrhizic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid | Russia |
Heptor | 1150 rub. (20 tablets 400 mg) | Ademetionine | Russia |
Gepabene | 520 rub. (30 caps. 4.13+50 mg) | Milk thistle and fume extracts | Germany |
Flamin | 165 rub. (30 tablets 50 mg) | Immortelle sand flowers sum of flavonoids | Russia |
Hofitol | 420 rub. (60 tablets) | Artichoke Leaf Extract | France |
There are contraindications! Consult your doctor!
Ursosan - instructions for use
The dose of the drug is selected individually, taking into account the nature and extent of the disease. The medicine is intended for internal use.
The daily dosage is 10–15 mg per kilogram of patient weight. When dissolving gallstones, the calculated amount of the drug is taken once at night. In other cases, the daily dose is divided into 2-3 doses during the day.
The duration of treatment is usually 6 months. Long-term treatment makes it possible not only to eliminate the disease, but also to prevent its recurrence.
How to drink Ursosan - before or after meals
The drug should only be taken orally during or after meals. You need to drink at least 150 ml of water. Do not chew the tablet or capsule; swallow it whole. For dosing accuracy with this method of use, the tablet can be divided in half strictly according to the risk. The medicine has a bitter taste.
Composition and release form
Ursosan, the instructions for use indicate this, contains ursodeoxycholic acid. Today, hepoprotective drugs based on it are considered the most effective.
The medicine is produced in the form of gelatin capsules filled with a mixture of white powder and powder granules in an amount of 250 mg. You can purchase Ursosan in blister packs of 10 or 20 capsules. The medicine is also offered in polyethylene jars containing 10, 20, 50 or 100 capsules. Cardboard packages must contain instructions for use.
Analogues of Ursosan
Direct analogues of Ursosan 250 mg and 500 mg (Forte) are drugs containing ursodeoxycholic acid:
- Ursodeoxycholic acid‒Vertex;
- Grinterol;
- Livodex;
- Protecholin;
- Urbihol;
- Urtsevel;
- Urdoxa;
- Ursodez;
- Ursodiolysin;
- Ursoliv;
- Ursomax;
- Ursomik;
- Ursofalk;
- Choludexan;
- Exhol;
- Ecorohol.
Substitutes for Ursosan in terms of action include drugs with a different composition that have a choleretic, hepatoprotective effect:
- Herbal hepatoprotectors - Gepabene, Fumarta, Karsil, Legalon, Silibor, Liv-52, Galstena.
- Choleretic analogues based on artichoke - Hofitol, Artichoke extract, Cinnarix.
- Hepatoprotective drugs based on amino acids - Heptral, Heptrazan, Carnitene, Carnitine, Methionine, Glutargin, Lecithin, Hepatrin.
- Choleretic drugs of various compositions - Allochol, Flamin, Holelesan, Cholenzym, Holosas;
- Phospholipid analogues - Essentiale forte N, Livolin forte, Phosphogliv forte, Hepaforte, Rezalut Pro.
- Antral.
List of Ursosan analogues with prices
Drug name | Active substance | Release form | Manufacturer | Minimum dosage cost |
Ursosan | Ursodeoxycholic acid | Tablets, capsules | PRO. MED. CS Praha, Czech Republic | From 720 ₽ |
Urdoxa | FP Obolenskoye, Russia | From 650 ₽ | ||
Ursosan forte | Pills | From 1410 ₽ | ||
Livodex | SUN Pharmaceutical Ind., India | From 740 ₽ | ||
Ursofalk | Tablets, capsules, suspension | DR. FALK Pharma, Germany | From 800 ₽ | |
Ursodez | Capsules | North Star, Russia | From 450 ₽ | |
Grinterol | Grindeks, Latvia | From 730 ₽ | ||
Ursoliv | ABVA Rus, Russia | From 700 ₽ | ||
Heptral | Ademetionine | Tablets, powder for solution for injection | ABBOTT LAB., Germany | From 1520 ₽ |
Phosphogliv | Phospholipids, glycyrrhizic acid | Capsules, powder for solution for injection | Pharmstandard‒Leksredstva, Russia | From 430 ₽ |
Hofitol | Artichoke extract | Tablets, oral solution, ampoules | Lab. ROSA‒Phytopharma, France | From 370 ₽ |
Allohol | Bile, activated carbon, garlic and nettle extract | Pills | Avexima, Russia | From 30 ₽ |
Ovesol (dietary supplement) | Extract of oats, rose hips, immortelle, mint | Tablets, tea, solution, drops | Evalar, Russia | From 160 ₽ |
Karsil forte | Milk thistle extract | Capsules | Sopharma, Bulgaria | From 330 ₽ |
Hepa‒mertz | Ornithine aspartate | Granules, concentrate for solution preparation | MERZ PHARMA, Germany | From 600 ₽ |
Top 5. Phosphoglyph Urso
Rating (2021): 4.32
The combined composition Phosphoglyph Urso contains 250 mg of ursodeoxycholic acid, and is also additionally enhanced with glycyrrhizic acid.
- Characteristics
Average price: 840 rub. (50 caps. 35+250 mg)
- Manufacturer: Pharmstandard-Leksredstva (Russia)
- Active ingredient: glycyrrhizic acid + ursodeoxycholic acid
Phosphoglyph Urso is a unique drug in composition, one of the Ursosan analogues, also containing ursodeoxycholic acid, but additionally enhanced with glycyrrhizic acid. Thanks to this formula, the drug has a positive effect on the condition of the liver, has a choleretic effect, and relieves the inflammatory process. The medicine does not belong to the inexpensive category. For a number of indications, it will have to be taken for several months, so treatment will not be cheap. The drug appeared relatively recently, and is still poorly known to doctors and patients, so there are few reviews about it. But it is only due to its complex composition and action that Phosphoglyph Urso is worthy of being represented in this rating.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Combined composition
- Integrated Positive Action
- Optimal dosage
- Few reviews
- Price
Ursosan or Ursofalk - which is better and more effective, what is the difference
Manufacturer: DR.
FALK Pharma, Germany Release form: tablets, capsules, suspension
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Grinterol, Livodex, Ursodez, Ursoliv, Ursofalk
Ursofalk is an original complete substitute for Ursosan with identical composition and properties, but a higher price.
Both analogues are used to restore the liver, as choleretic and cholelitholytic agents. During pregnancy, both products are not recommended for use.
According to doctors, side effects such as diarrhea and allergies rarely develop. Differences in manufacturers do not have a significant impact on the safety and effectiveness of analogues.
Top 2. Flamin
Rating (2021): 4.55
Best price Flamin is the cheapest drug included in our rating and the winner in the “Best Price” category.
- Characteristics
Average price: 165 rub. (30 tablets 50 mg)
- Manufacturer: Vifitex (Russia)
- Active ingredient: immortelle sand flowers sum of flavonoids
Flamin is an inexpensive drug based on components of plant origin. It is sold in pharmacies without a prescription, but it should be used only as prescribed by a doctor. The product helps with cholecystitis and biliary dyskinesia, has moderate antibacterial, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects. Flamin is often called one of the best drugs for the liver; it is compared with Ursosan, calling it analogues in many respects. Judging by the reviews, this medicine does not help everyone, but low ratings are usually given to it by those who took it without consulting a doctor. Doctors rate Flamin highly, but note that the drug is ineffective in acute conditions.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Natural composition
- Affordable price
- Complex action
- Effective only for mild forms of the disease
See also:
- 10 Best Liver Supplements with iHerb
Ursosan or Ursosan forte - which is better?
Manufacturer: PRO.
MED. CS Praha, Czech Republic Release form: tablets
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Grinterol, Ursodez, Ursofalk, Ursoliv
Compared to the usual form of the drug, Ursosan Forte differs only in the dosage of ursodeoxycholic acid - 500 mg. The analogues do not differ in properties, mechanisms of action and manufacturers.
When prescribing the drug in high doses, it is recommended to use Ursosan forte to reduce the number of doses.
Contraindications and adverse reactions
The main contraindication is hypersensitivity to the active ingredient. In addition, ursosan is not prescribed in the presence of gallstones with a high calcium content, as well as in cases of impaired contractility of the gallbladder and its diseases in the acute stage.
Contraindications include:
- Liver cirrhosis in the stage of decompensation.
- Liver and/or kidney failure.
It is not recommended to take the medicine in the 1st trimester of pregnancy and during lactation. Treatment of children with the drug should be carried out only in exceptional cases.
No cases of drug overdose have been recorded. Adverse reactions during treatment with urososan may include diarrhea. In rare cases, abdominal pain has been reported.
Ursosan or Essentiale Forte - which is better?
Manufacturer: A. Nattermann and Cie., GmbH, Germany
Release form: capsules, ampoules
Active ingredient: phospholipids from soybeans
Synonyms: Antraliv, Esslial forte
Essentiale Forte, compared to Ursosan, has a different composition, differences in properties and manufacturer. This analogue is characterized by a more pronounced effect on the liver, restoring its cells. In this case, there is no effect on the gallbladder and stones.
When choosing an alternative, the nature of the disease should also be taken into account. For liver pathologies, Essentiale is a worthy replacement option, approved for use in pregnant women with toxicosis.
Description of the dosage form
White, hard, opaque gelatin capsules. Capsule contents: white or almost white powder, or white or almost white powder with pieces of mass, or white or almost white powder, compressed in a column and disintegrating when pressed.
Pharmacokinetics
Ursodeoxycholic acid is absorbed in the small intestine by passive diffusion (about 90%), and in the ileum by active transport. Cmax is achieved after 1-3 hours and is 3.8 when taken orally 50 mg after 30, 60 and 90 minutes; 5.5 and 3.7 mmol/l, respectively. Plasma protein binding - up to 96-99%. Penetrates through the placental barrier.
With systematic use of the drug Ursosan, ursodeoxycholic acid becomes the main bile acid in the blood serum and accounts for about 48% of the total amount of bile acids in the blood. The therapeutic effect of the drug depends on the concentration of ursodeoxycholic acid in bile.
Metabolized in the liver into taurine and glycine conjugates, which are secreted into bile. About 50-70% of the total dose is excreted in bile. A small amount of unabsorbed ursodeoxycholic acid enters the large intestine, where it is broken down by bacteria (7-dehydroxylation); the resulting lithocholic acid is partially absorbed from the colon, sulfated in the liver and quickly excreted in the form of sulfolithocholylglycine or sulfolitocholyltaurine conjugate.
Pharmacodynamics
Possessing high polarity, ursodeoxycholic acid forms non-toxic mixed micelles with apolar (toxic) bile acids, which reduces the ability of gastric refluxate to damage cell membranes in biliary reflux gastritis and reflux esophagitis. In addition, ursodeoxycholic acid forms double molecules that can be included in cell membranes (hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract), stabilize them and make them immune to the action of cytotoxic micelles - a cytoprotective, hepatoprotective effect.
By reducing the concentration of bile acids toxic to the liver cell and stimulating choleresis with a high content of bicarbonates, ursodeoxycholic acid helps resolve intrahepatic cholestasis - an anticholestatic effect. Reduces the saturation of bile with cholesterol by inhibiting its absorption in the intestine, suppressing synthesis in the liver and reducing secretion into bile - a hypocholesterolemic effect. Increases the solubility of cholesterol in bile, forming liquid crystals with it; reduces the lithogenic index of bile.
The result is the dissolution of cholesterol gallstones and the prevention of the formation of new stones - the litholytic effect. The immunomodulatory effect is due to inhibition of the expression of HLA-1 antigens on the membranes of hepatocytes and HLA-2 on cholangiocytes, normalization of the natural killer activity of lymphocytes, etc. Significantly delays the progression of fibrosis in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, cystic fibrosis and alcoholic steatohepatitis - antifibrotic effect; reduces the risk of developing varicose veins of the esophagus. Ursodeoxycholic acid regulates the processes of apoptosis (aging and cell death) that are disrupted in the pathology of the liver and other organs - an anti-apoptotic effect.
Ursosan or Urdoxa - which is better and more effective, what is the difference
Manufacturer: FP Obolenskoye, Russia
Release form: capsules, tablets
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Ursosan, Ursoliv, Ursodez
Urdoxa is a complete analogue of Ursosan, produced in Russia, which is produced in tablets and capsules depending on the dose. Manufacturers differ in their products. According to many gastroenterologists, the effectiveness of such drugs is the same. The drugs are well tolerated and have evidence of safety.
Cost of the medicine and main analogues
The cost of Ursosan analogues is in a wide range - foreign similar products are much more expensive than Russian ones.
Name of the medication | Dosage of the main component (mg) | Quantity in 1 package | Cost in rubles |
Ursosan | 250 | 10 50 100 | 526-550 868-900 1530-1600 |
Livodex | 150 300 300 | 50 50 100 | 240-245 260-300 620-650 |
Holenzym | 150 | 50 | 110-120 |
Ursoliv | 150 | 50 | 700-800 |
exhol | 250 250 500 | 10 50 50 | 200-220 814-850 1261-1280 |
Urdoxa | 250 | 50 | 1738-1900 |
Hepavilag | 250 | 50 | 630-650 |
Ursosan or Ursodez - which is better?
Manufacturer: North Star, Russia
Release form: capsules
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Ursoliv, Ursosan, Livodexa, Ursocaps, Ursodiolysin
Ursodez is an inexpensive domestic complete analogue, which is a high-quality and safe option when the patient is looking for a cheaper alternative to Ursosan.
The effectiveness and properties of this substitute are absolutely identical.
Reviews from doctors and patients about the drug are mostly positive, indicating that the product is truly effective.
Top 1. exhol
Rating (2021): 4.74
The best reviews from doctors and patients The analogue of Ursosan Exchol receives the highest ratings in reviews from both ordinary people and doctors.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1220 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg)
- Manufacturer: Kanonpharma (Russia)
Exchol is a Russian analogue of Ursosan, which attracts with its cheaper price and high ratings in reviews from doctors and ordinary people. The drug is available in 250 mg capsules and 500 mg tablets. There is also a release form in the form of a suspension, but at the time of writing the rating it was not available in pharmacies. Doctors confirm that Exchol is effective both as a hepatoprotector and as a choleretic agent. Side effects while taking it are possible, but they are observed no more often than when using other drugs with the same composition. In general, Exchol can be considered a worthy alternative not only to Ursosan, but also to other drugs with a similar composition.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Attractive price
- Good reviews from doctors and ordinary people
- Two release forms available in pharmacies
- Also available as a suspension, but not commercially available
See also:
- 10 best choleretic drugs
to the beginning of the rating
Ursosan or Heptral - which is better for the liver
Manufacturer: ABBOTT LAB., Germany
Release form: tablets, powder for solution for injection
Active ingredient: ademetionine
Synonyms: Ademethionine, Heparetta, Heptor, Heptrazan, Samelix
Heptral is a hepatoprotector based on the amino acid ademetionine. The medicine quickly and safely helps restore liver cells, improve the flow of bile and normalize metabolism in the hepato-biliary system.
Unlike Ursosan, this analogue is unable to destroy cholesterol gallstones. Therefore, when choosing a medicine, this feature should be taken into account.
Ursosan or Phosphogliv - which is better for the liver
Manufacturer: Pharmstandard-Leksredstva, Russia
Release form: capsules, powder for solution for injection
Active ingredient: phospholipids, glycyrrhizic acid
Synonyms: Glycyrrhizic acid + Phospholipids
Phosphogliv is a domestic hepatoprotector that restores the liver and stimulates the normal flow of bile. Phosphogliv, unlike Ursosan, is not characterized by the ability to dissolve gallstones. This analogue is prescribed only for liver lesions of various etiologies.
Top 4. Heptor
Rating (2021): 4.46
Inexpensive generic Heptral Heptor is a Russian generic Heptral, which is one of the most popular and effective hepatoprotectors.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1150 rub. (20 tablets 400 mg)
- Manufacturer: Veropharm (Russia)
- Active ingredient: ademetionine
Heptor is a Russian analogue of the more expensive and widely advertised Heptral. The drug based on ademetionine has a pronounced hepatoprotective effect and is prescribed for liver lesions of various types, cholestasis, cholecystitis without the formation of stones. Heptor cannot be called a complete analogue of Ursosan, but in a number of actions they are similar. Judging by the reviews, the medicine really works and shows excellent effectiveness. Although there are many side effects described in the annotation, in reality only a few occur. The price is far from the cheapest, especially considering the fact that there are only 20 tablets in the package, but it is almost 2 times lower than the cost of the original drug based on ademetionine.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Inexpensive generic Heptral
- Pronounced hepatoprotective effect
- Lots of positive reviews
- Cost of course treatment
Ursosan or Grinterol - which is better?
Manufacturer: Grindeks, Latvia
Release form: capsules
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Ursoliv, Livodex, Ursodez
Grinterol is a fairly expensive imported complete analogue of Ursosan with the same composition and effect. All efficacy studies have been carried out for such a substitute, which indicates the high activity of the drug.
The product is very well tolerated and can be used for a long time.
Top 5. Grinterol
Rating (2021): 4.38
One release form of Grinterol is available in only one dosage of 250 mg, which is convenient for many patients.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1415 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg)
- Manufacturer: Grindex (Latvia)
The Latvian drug Grinterol, judging by a small number of reviews, is not a popular analogue of Ursosan, but this does not mean that it is not worthy of being included in the ranking of the best. The medicine is available in only one form - 250 mg capsules, and is slightly cheaper than other foreign analogues, but more expensive than a number of Russian ones. The hepatoprotective and choleretic effects of Grinterol are no worse than those of other ursodeoxycholic acid drugs; recommendations for therapy and dosages are identical, as well as for side effects. So far, the main disadvantage of Grinterol is that it is not prescribed as often as its analogues, although it does not differ significantly from them.
Advantages and disadvantages
- The drug from a famous Latvian pharmaceutical company
- Prices are cheaper than a number of analogues
- Packages with different numbers of tablets
- Few reviews
- One dose 250 mg
Ursosan or Hofitol - which is better?
Manufacturer: Lab.
ROSA‒Phytopharma, France Release form: tablets, oral solution, ampoules
Active ingredient: artichoke extract
Synonyms: Artichoke extract, Artichol, Cinnarix
Chophytol is a herbal choleretic agent with a weak hepatoprotective effect. The drug does not have the ability to dissolve gallstones. For these reasons, the product cannot be considered a full-fledged analogue of Ursosan in terms of properties and indications.
Top 3. Hofitol
Rating (2021): 4.48
The most discussed We found more than 650 positive reviews about the drug Hofitol. This is more than other drugs participating in the rating, which allows us to call Hofitol the most discussed.
- Characteristics
Average price: 420 rub. (60 tablets)
- Manufacturer: Rosa-Phytopharma (France)
- Active ingredient: artichoke leaf extract
Hofitol is a popular and relatively inexpensive drug based on plant materials. Containing an extract of artichoke leaves, it has a choleretic and hepatoprotective effect, normalizes metabolic processes in the liver tissue, which allows us to safely classify it as an analogue of Ursosan. The medicine is prescribed for hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver, biliary dyskinesia, but is not suitable for cholelithiasis. You will take Hofitol 3 times a day, 2-3 tablets, for 2-3 weeks. Before starting treatment, it is important to consult with your doctor, since the drug has a number of contraindications. It is worth noting that doctors speak highly of its effectiveness, talking about its mild action and minimal risk of side effects.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Affordable price
- Natural composition
- Action similar to Ursosan
- Take 2-3 tablets. 3 times a day
Ursosan or Exchol - which is better?
Manufacturer: Kanonpharma, Russia
Release form: tablets, capsules, suspension
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Ursoliv, Ursosan
Exhol is a complete analogue of Ursosan in the middle price category. This drug can be a complete replacement for the same indications.
The quality of the raw materials from which the medicine is produced is high. Therefore, the medicine has a pronounced effect with long-term use.
Top 2. Ursofalk
Rating (2021): 4.44
The most popular complete analogue of Ursosan Judging by the number of reviews that we found, as well as the number of user requests on social networks, Ursofalk can be safely called the most popular analogue of Ursosan.
Three dosage forms Ursofalk is offered not only in the form of tablets and capsules, but also has another dosage form in the form of a suspension.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1720 rub. (100 caps. 250 mg)
- Manufacturer: Losan Pharma/Alphamed (Germany)
Ursofalk is a German drug based on ursodeoxycholic acid. It is offered in several formats - 250 mg capsules, 500 mg tablets and 250 mg/5 ml suspension. Many doctors call it one of the best in their group and prescribe it more often than its analogues. When taken as a course, Ursofalk helps dissolve gallstones, relieve pain, and have a positive effect on the liver. The main disadvantage of Ursofalk is its price, which, however, is not much higher than that of Ursosan. If treatment is required for several months, the cost of treatment is not affordable for everyone. The advantage is the presence of a liquid form of release, which allows the medicine to be used even in children of the first year of life. There is an opinion that Ursofalk more often than Ursosan causes side effects in the form of itchy skin.
Advantages and disadvantages
- High marks from doctors
- There is a release form in the form of a suspension
- Suspension can be used for children of the first year of life
- Price
See also:
- 10 Best Milk Thistle Supplements on iHerb
Ursosan or Odeston - what is the difference
Manufacturer: ADAMED Pharma, Poland
Release form: tablets
Active ingredient: hymecromone
Synonyms: Gimecromon, Odeston forte
Odeston is an effective choleretic drug that differs in composition and properties. Among the indications for use are only disorders of the outflow of bile and all pathologies associated with this condition.
Hepatoprotective and cholelitholytic effects are not typical for this analogue. For this reason, Odeston cannot be considered a full-fledged alternative to Ursosan.
Which analogue to choose
Analogues of expensive drugs have several advantages:
- similar composition;
- reduced cost;
- no fakes.
Highly expensive medications have fewer side effects (this is their significant difference). However, in any case, before starting use, you should read the instructions.
Before replacing the drug, it is recommended to consult a doctor regarding the period for achieving the maximum therapeutic effect and duration. In addition, the nature of the pathological process should be taken into account. When diagnosing a severe form of the disease, preference should be given to more expensive drugs, so it is not always possible to replace the main drug with its analogues. At the same time, you should adhere to proper nutrition, and you will have to give up eating a number of foods.
Ursosan or Livodex - which is better?
Manufacturer: SUN Pharmaceutical Ind., India
Release form: tablets
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Ursoliv, Ursosan
Livodex is an Indian substitute that has an identical composition and effect on the liver and gall bladder. This analogue of Ursosan in tablets of 250 mg and 500 mg belongs to the average price category and can be used by a fairly large range of patients.
The high quality and safety of this medicine have been proven by research.
Substitutes for therapeutic effect
Substitutes for Ursosan are also those medications that are made on the basis of other active ingredients, but have the same therapeutic direction.
Hepavilag
Hepavilag is a similar product, available in granules for the preparation of a suspension for oral use. The main components in the medicine are L-arginine, -leucine, -isoleucine, -valine and glycylglycine.
Prescribed primarily to compensate for the deficiency of amino acids and biological components that are necessary to restore the functionality of the liver and gall bladder. The drug actively affects the acceleration of cholesterol catabolism.
Hepavilag is not used in the treatment for the following reasons:
- congenital or genetic pathologies in metabolism;
- uremia;
- severe kidney pathologies;
- lactation period;
- pregnancy.
There is no reliable information about the effect of the drug on the intrauterine development of the fetus, therefore it is prohibited to prescribe the drug during this period. During lactation, the medication can be used after interruption of breastfeeding.
The oral suspension is prepared as follows:
- dissolve the dry mixture in 100 ml of boiling water;
- stir the suspension until a homogeneous liquid;
- let cool to room temperature or add 50 ml of cold boiled water.
The daily dosage of the medication is 4-5 sachets, divided into 3-4 administration procedures. Patients with acute amino acid deficiency are prescribed an increased dose per day - 6-8 sachets, which also need to be distributed over 3-4 administration procedures.
The therapeutic course of taking the drug Hepavilag is 30-50 days.
Negative manifestations from taking the medicine occur rarely and are manifested by dyspepsia and other disorders of the digestive tract, as well as dermatological reactions - rash, urticaria and itchy skin. If you do not violate therapeutic dosages, the patient does not feel any side effects from taking it at all.
Phytohol
Phytohol is a plant analogue of Ursosan. The herbal medicine is produced in gelatin capsules with the active ingredient – artichoke leaves. Biological active components in the composition of the drug activate the release of bile and also increase diuresis. The area of prescription of the herbal medicine is pathologies of bile, liver and kidneys with urinary organs.
The herbal medicine is prescribed for:
- dyspepsia;
- flatulence;
- feeling of heaviness in the stomach;
- long period of food processing;
- retention of urine in the body;
- chronic disorders in the urethral organs.
General information about dyspepsia
An Ursosan analogue is not prescribed for the following reasons:
- allergy to phytochemicals;
- artichoke allergy;
- stones in the gallbladder;
- bile duct stenosis;
- acute diseases in the urinary and biliary organs;
- obstruction of the bile ducts;
- cholangitis;
- empyema;
- GB dysfunction;
- in pediatrics for children under 12 years of age.
Dosages are prescribed by the doctor individually based on diagnostic and laboratory tests of the digestive organs:
- Patients over 12 years old – 1-2 capsules three times a day before meals. You need to take the medicine with a small amount of water - 100 ml.
- The duration of therapy can vary from 14 to 21 days. If necessary, after 2 weeks you can repeat the medication course.
Children under 12 years of age and women during pregnancy and lactation should not take the medicine due to a lack of information about the safety of the herbal medicine during these periods.
Taking a herbal medicine can provoke the development of the following negative manifestations:
- flatulence and dyspepsia;
- discomfort in the peritoneal organs;
- severe diarrhea or constipation;
- nausea;
- vomit;
- bronchospasms:
- dermatological reactions - urticaria, skin hyperemia, itching and rash.
Ursosan or Ursoliv - which is better?
Manufacturer: ABVA Rus, Russia
Release form: capsules
Active ingredient: ursodeoxycholic acid
Synonyms: Ursofalk, Livodex, Ursosan, Grinterol
Ursoliv is a high-quality product made in Russia, which is a complete replacement for Ursosan in composition and properties. Medicines differ only by manufacturers.
This analogue is suitable for patients who select optimal and effective treatment regimens at an affordable price.
Answers on questions
Is Ursosan possible for pancreatitis or not?
For chronic pancreatitis, drugs of other groups are used as prescribed by a doctor (Creon enzymes, etc., antispasmodics Duspatalin and others, agents for normalizing peristalsis Trimedat, Meteospasmil). Acute forms are treated in a hospital.
Is it possible to take Ursosan with alcohol or not?
Regular intake of large doses of alcohol during treatment with the drug is not recommended.
Does Ursosan help with the liver or not?
The medicine and its analogues are used for many liver pathologies, especially those caused by damage to the cell structure and disturbances in the outflow of bile.
When is it better to drink Ursosan - in the morning or in the evening?
For gallstones, the drug should be taken before bedtime. In other cases, the daily dose is distributed into 2-3 doses evenly throughout the day.
Is Ursosan a choleretic drug or not?
The medicine and its direct analogues have a choleretic effect.
Ursosan tablets or capsules - which is better, what's the difference?
The only difference is in the dosage of the active substance. Capsules contain 500 mg, and tablets contain 250 mg of ursodeoxycholic acid.
Ursosan original drug or generic?
Ursosan is a generic drug. The original drug is an analogue of Ursofalk.
Popular cheap analogues
Today, pharmacies offer an abundance of analogs of Ursosan, which are cheaper, but in their therapeutic effect are not inferior to the more expensive drug.
Livodex
Livodexa is a medication based on ursodeoxycholic acid to protect liver tissue, as well as enhance the release of bile into the duodenum. The medication is a structural substitute for Ursosan.
The medication has the properties of dissolving stones from cholesterol molecules, restoring lipid imbalance in the liver and in the bloodstream. The use of Livodexa in therapy helps reduce the low molecular weight fraction of cholesterol (LDL). Bile stops absorbing cholesterol, suppresses its excessive synthesis in liver cells, and reduces the lithogenicity of bile acid.
Mechanism of action
Livodex is prescribed for the following patient diseases:
- biliary cirrhosis at the stage of compensation;
- medium or small stones;
- gastritis.
The drug is not prescribed in the following situations:
- stones in the gallbladder if they have a high concentration of calcium molecules;
- inflammation of the gallbladder in the acute phase;
- disturbances in the functioning of the bile ducts, intestines and liver;
- liver and kidney failure;
- pancreatitis;
Pancreatitis - allergy to the medicinal composition;
- lactose intolerance or galactose deficiency;
- in pediatrics with the patient’s body weight less than 34 kg;
- during lactation and pregnancy.
The tablets are taken before bedtime once a day. The dosage of the tablet is 10 mg per kilogram of body weight. The duration of therapy depends on the composition of the stones and can last no less than 2 years. Treatment of gastritis – 250 mg per day. The duration of the treatment process is from 10 days to 2 years.
Negative reactions:
- calcification of stones;
- severe diarrhea;
- abdominal pain;
- nausea, which can cause a gag reflex.
Holenzym
Cholenzym is prepared in tablets for oral administration based on three components: dry bile, dry crushed pancreas and the mucous membranes of the intestines of cattle. The drug is prescribed in the following cases:
- stagnation of bile and disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
- cholecystitis in the chronic stage;
- hepatitis and gastritis;
- pancreatitis, diarrhea of infectious origin;
- colitis and flatulence.
The drug is also prescribed to patients with high cholesterol index, poor diet and physical inactivity.
Colitis
Cholenzym is not prescribed to patients with an allergy to the drug, in children under 12 years of age, with jaundice and pancreatitis in the acute phase of development. During pregnancy and lactation, Cholenzym does not harm the baby, so taking the medication during these periods is allowed, but only as prescribed by a doctor, and without deviating from therapeutic dosages.
Negative effects from taking the medication are rare, but with a long course of medication, you can observe the development of such side effects as:
- diarrhea;
- pain in the abdominal and epigastric region;
- heartburn;
- severe nausea;
- allergic skin reactions - hives, redness and itching of the skin.