Ulyses 150

ULYSES 150 Tablet

ULYSES 150 Tablet, manufactured by Lupin Ltd., is a medication primarily used for certain liver and gallbladder conditions.

Composition

ULYSES 150 Tablet contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid (150mg) as its active ingredient. Ursodeoxycholic Acid is a naturally occurring bile acid.

Uses

ULYSES 150 Tablet is prescribed for various medical conditions:

• Dissolving Gallstones: It is used to dissolve certain types of cholesterol-rich gallstones and prevent their formation. It works by reducing cholesterol absorption from the intestine and its production by the liver, decreasing cholesterol saturation in the bile.
• Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) / Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC): It helps manage and alleviate symptoms associated with this chronic autoimmune liver disease, supporting liver function and protecting bile ducts. It can delay the progression to more severe conditions like cirrhosis and liver failure.
• Liver dysfunction associated with cystic fibrosis: It is used in children above 6 years old with biliary and liver diseases caused by cystic fibrosis.
• Cholestasis of Pregnancy: It is frequently recommended to treat pregnancy-related cholestasis.

Dosage and Administration

ULYSES 150 Tablet should be swallowed whole after a meal, with a glass of milk or water. The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by a doctor based on the condition being treated and the individual's body weight. It is crucial to take the medication regularly for the prescribed duration, which can be several months or longer, even if symptoms improve. For gallstone dissolution, it is often suggested to be taken once daily at night.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ULYSES 150 Tablet may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Hair loss
• Itching (Pruritus)
• Nausea
• Rash
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dyspepsia (indigestion)

If diarrhea persists, or if you experience persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.

Precautions

• Allergy: Do not take ULYSES 150 Tablet if you are allergic to Ursodeoxycholic Acid or bile acids.
• Gallbladder Conditions: It is not recommended for use with cholesterol, radiopaque, bile pigment gallstones, or stones greater than 20 mm in diameter. It is also contraindicated in cases of inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts, blockage of the common bile duct or cystic duct, or improper gallbladder function.
• Liver Disease: Use with caution in patients with liver disease, and regular monitoring of liver enzyme levels may be required.
• Kidney Disease: Limited information exists; consult a doctor if you have kidney problems.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding; use only if clearly necessary and under medical supervision.
• Drug Interactions:
  • Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum without consulting a doctor, as they can decrease the effectiveness of ULYSES 150 Tablet.
  • Avoid medicines like cholestyramine or colestipol, as they affect its effectiveness; maintain a 2-4 hour gap if necessary.
  • Oral contraceptives, estrogenic hormones, and cholesterol-lowering agents like clofibrate may increase the chances of developing gallstones and counteract the effects of ULYSES 150 Tablet. Women of childbearing age should use non-hormonal contraceptive measures or low estrogen oral contraceptive pills.
• Alcohol: Exercise caution as consuming alcohol may lead to increased drowsiness and potential liver damage.
• Monitoring: Regular liver function tests and ultrasound scans may be necessary to monitor therapeutic improvement and liver function during treatment.

Storage

Store ULYSES 150 Tablet at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place. Keep it shielded from light and moisture, and ensure it is stored in a place inaccessible to children and pets.

ULYSES 150 by LUPIN LTD (containing Ursodeoxycholic Acid 150mg) is a medication primarily used for certain liver and gallbladder conditions. Here are some frequently asked questions about this medicine:

What is ULYSES 150 used for?

ULYSES 150 Tablet is primarily used to dissolve certain types of gallstones that are rich in cholesterol. It is also prescribed for the treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), a chronic liver disease that affects the bile ducts. Additionally, it may be used to manage liver dysfunction associated with cystic fibrosis in children above 6 years of age and in some cases, to prevent gallstones in individuals undergoing rapid weight loss.

How does ULYSES 150 work?

ULYSES 150 contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA), a naturally occurring bile acid. It works by reducing the production and absorption of cholesterol by the liver and intestines, respectively. This action decreases the cholesterol saturation in bile, which helps in the gradual dissolution of cholesterol-rich gallstones. Furthermore, it improves bile flow and protects liver cells from damage caused by toxic bile acids, thereby enhancing overall liver function.

What is the usual dosage for ULYSES 150?

The dosage of ULYSES 150 depends on the specific condition being treated, the patient's body weight, and the doctor's instructions. It is generally recommended to take the tablet whole after a meal with a glass of milk or water. For gallstone dissolution, it might be suggested to take it once daily at night. Treatment often requires regular use for several months or even longer, even if symptoms improve.

What are the possible side effects of ULYSES 150?

Common side effects of ULYSES 150 include abdominal pain, diarrhea, hair loss, itching, nausea, and rash. Other less common side effects can include fatigue, headache, vomiting, indigestion, metallic taste, back pain, and dizziness. If diarrhea is persistent or bothersome, your doctor may adjust the dose or discontinue the treatment. It's important to consult your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Is ULYSES 150 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: ULYSES 150 is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and clearly advised by a doctor. Limited human studies are available, and animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby. Breastfeeding: Caution is advised when taking ULYSES 150 during breastfeeding. While some studies suggest minimal risk to the baby, its safety is not fully established. It's crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Women of childbearing age should use non-hormonal birth control or low-estrogen oral contraceptive pills while on this medication.

Can ULYSES 150 be taken with other medications?

ULYSES 150 can interact with certain medications. It is advisable to avoid taking it with aluminum-containing antacids, cholestyramine, or colestipol, as these can reduce its absorption and effectiveness. If necessary, a gap of at least 2 to 4 hours should be maintained between doses. Hormonal birth control pills (containing estrogens) and certain cholesterol-lowering agents like clofibrate should also be avoided as they can increase the risk of gallstones or counteract the effects of ULYSES 150. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

What precautions should be taken while taking ULYSES 150?

Before starting ULYSES 150, inform your doctor if you have allergies to Ursodeoxycholic Acid or any bile acids. This medicine is not recommended for individuals with calcified gallstones, inflammation or blockage of the gallbladder or bile ducts, or gallstones larger than 20 mm. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney problems, and regular monitoring of liver function tests may be required. Maintaining a healthy, low-cholesterol diet is also advisable during treatment. Report any persistent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin or eyes to your doctor. Alcohol consumption should be approached with caution as it may increase drowsiness and liver damage.

What happens if a dose of ULYSES 150 is missed?

If you miss a dose of ULYSES 150, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ULYSES 150 be stored?

ULYSES 150 tablets should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 30°C (or between 15-30°C), in a cool and dry place. Keep the medication protected from light and moisture, and ensure it is kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiration date and do not use the medicine if it has expired.