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Proursan is a preparation used in the treatment of diseases of the biliary tract. Its active ingredient is ursodeoxycholic acid, a hydrophilic bile acid that naturally occurs in small amounts in the bile. It works by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol and reducing the secretion of this substance into bile.
Scientists speculate that this acid also reduces cholesterol synthesis. It causes gradual dissolution of cholesterol deposits, protects liver cells and regulates immune processes. When administered orally, it is quickly absorbed. In the liver, it is coupled with glycine and taurine, and then secreted into the bile.
Proursan – when to use?
Ursodeoxycholic acid, which is non-toxic to the organs, is used in diseases of the liver and bile ducts. The substance replaces the more harmful bile acids.
Proursan is used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones that are less than 15 millimeters in diameter. Other indications include the initial stages of primary biliary cirrhosis of the liver and gastritis due to regurgitation of bile.
Proursan – contraindications to the use of the preparation
Even in the case when the patient has indications for the use of Proursan, contraindications to its use may appear. These include allergies or hypersensitivity to a drug component. The preparation cannot be used during acute inflammation of the biliary tract and gallbladder, obstruction of the cystic duct and common bile duct, severe cirrhosis, enteritis, severe liver or kidney dysfunction, calcification present in cholesterol deposits, disorders of gallbladder contractions and frequently recurring colic biliary. The product must also not be used when the gallbladder is not visible on an X-ray.
Proursan during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Ask your doctor for advice before taking any drug while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Proursan must not be taken by children under the age of two, pregnant and breastfeeding women. Women of childbearing age who are taking the drug and using contraceptive methods at the same time should consult their doctor for an effective type of contraception.
Follow-up during Proursan treatment
Take special care while using the drug and perform all necessary check-ups. Liver function parameters should be monitored. Tests should be performed every 30 days for the first three months of treatment, and every 90 days thereafter.
In order to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and early diagnosis of biliary calcification, the attending physician should recommend the patient to perform a radiographic examination of the gallbladder 6-10 months after the start of treatment (this time depends on the diameter of the deposits). Radiographic images (both for overview and after contrast administration) will then be taken in two body positions – standing and lying.
Proursan – dosage
The preparation is produced in the form of capsules, intended for oral use. Depending on the patient’s body weight, the daily dose is two to five capsules which is approximately 10 milligrams per kilogram of patient weight. At this dose, the drug is taken for 6 to 24 months. Exceeding the recommended doses does not increase the effectiveness of the drug and may be harmful to the health and life of the patient. Determining and changing the dose should be consulted with a doctor each time.
If the diameter of cholesterol deposits does not decrease after using the drug for 12 months, the doctor will advise you to discontinue the preparation. The same will happen when calcification occurs within the deposits.
Treatment with Proursan must be continued for at least three months after the stones have dissolved.
How to use Proursan?
The capsules are designed to be swallowed whole (without chewing) and washed down with a small amount of liquid. It is recommended to take the drug in the evening, just before going to bed. During treatment, you should follow a diet prescribed by your doctor to help you avoid excess calories and cholesterol.
Proursan and alcohol
Studies have not shown that Proursan interacts with any food, including ethyl alcohol.
Proursan – replacements
Other preparations that contain ursodeoxycholic acid and are available on the Polish market include:
— Ursocam,
— Ursofalk,
— Ursopol.