Description
Ocaliva (obeticholic acid) is a medication used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). PBC is a chronic liver disease that damages the bile ducts in the liver. The medication works to improve liver function and reduce symptoms associated with PBC.
Uses:
Ocaliva is used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in adults who have an inadequate response to or are intolerant to the standard therapy of ursodeoxycholic acid.
Storage Conditions:
Ocaliva should be stored in its original container at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The medication should be protected from light and moisture.
Mechanism of Action:
Ocaliva works by activating the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) which regulates the production of bile acids in the liver. PBC is a disease that causes the destruction of the bile ducts, leading to the buildup of bile acids that damage the liver. By activating FXR, Ocaliva can regulate the amount of bile acids produced and reduce liver damage.
HOW TO USE:
Ocaliva is taken orally once daily, with or without food. The medication is available in tablet form and the dosage is based on the patient’s weight and liver function. The recommended starting dose is 5 mg once daily, and the dosage may be increased up to 10 mg once daily based on the patient’s response and tolerability. Patients should always follow the dosage recommendations provided by their healthcare provider.
Precautions:
• Ocaliva should not be used in patients with severe liver impairment or decompensated cirrhosis.
• The medication may cause liver function abnormalities. For this reason, patients with liver disease or who are using medications that can potentially affect liver function should undergo liver function tests before starting treatment with Ocaliva and monitored regularly during treatment.
• Ocaliva may interact with other medications that affect bile acid metabolism, such as bile acid sequestrants. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products they are taking before receiving treatment with Ocaliva.
Drug Interactions:
Ocaliva may interact with other medications that affect bile acid metabolism, such as bile acid sequestrants. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products they are taking before receiving treatment with Ocaliva.
Contraindications:
Ocaliva should not be used in patients with severe liver impairment or decompensated cirrhosis.
Overdose:
There is no specific information about the risk of an overdose with Ocaliva. In case of an overdose, patients should seek medical attention immediately.
Adverse Reactions:
The most common adverse reactions associated with treatment with Ocaliva include itching, fatigue, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual reactions while using Ocaliva.
In conclusion, Ocaliva is a medication used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in adults who have an inadequate response to or are intolerant to the standard therapy of ursodeoxycholic acid. The medication works by activating the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) which regulates the production of bile acids in the liver. Ocaliva is taken orally once daily and should be stored in its original container at room temperature. Patients should be precautious about interactions, liver function tests, and severe liver impairment or decompensated cirrhosis as contraindications. Common adverse reactions associated with Ocaliva include itching, fatigue, abdominal pain, and diarrhea and patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual reactions.
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