Products

3alpha-Hydroxy-7-oxo-5beta-cholanic acid, also known as ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), is a bile acid that is naturally produced in the liver from cholic acid. UDCA has been extensively studied and has shown a wide range of pharmaceutical applications.One of the primary uses of UDCA is in the treatment of liver diseases. It has been approved by regulatory agencies for the treatment of gallstone disease, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). UDCA suppresses cholesterol synthesis in liver cells, reduces cholesterol absorption, and increases the solubility of cholesterol in bile, which prevents the formation and growth of gallstones. In PBC and PSC, UDCA has been shown to slow down disease progression and improve liver function markers.UDCA has also been explored for its potential hepatoprotective effects. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties, which help protect liver cells from damage caused by various factors such as toxins, viruses, and oxidative stress. UDCA has shown promise in reducing liver inflammation and fibrosis associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and other liver disorders.Additionally, UDCA has been investigated for its role in improving digestive function. It aids in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats by emulsifying and enhancing their solubility. It also stimulates bile flow, which aids in the elimination of waste products and toxins from the liver.UDCA has shown potential in several other areas as well. It has been studied for its anti-inflammatory effects in various inflammatory disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and autoimmune hepatitis. UDCA has also been explored for its ability to prevent the recurrence of certain types of gallstones and to reduce the risk of gallstone formation during rapid weight loss.In summary, 3alpha-Hydroxy-7-oxo-5beta-cholanic acid (ursodeoxycholic acid) is a bile acid with diverse therapeutic applications. Its primary uses include the treatment of gallstone disease, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. UDCA also possesses hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits, and shows potential in various inflammatory and liver disorders. Further research continues to explore the wide range of applications for UDCA and its derivatives in the field of medicine.