Evidence supporting the use of: Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) is a bile acid derivative that has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in various liver diseases, including cirrhosis. The scientific rationale for its use is based primarily on its cytoprotective, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties within hepatocytes. Preclinical studies have shown that TUDCA can reduce endoplasmic reticulum stress and protect liver cells from apoptosis, which are relevant mechanisms in the progression of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.

However, the direct clinical evidence supporting TUDCA specifically for the treatment or management of cirrhosis in humans remains limited. Most clinical studies have focused on ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a related bile acid, in cholestatic liver diseases, with only a few small trials and case reports addressing TUDCA. These studies suggest some improvement in liver enzymes and potential hepatoprotective effects, but robust, large-scale randomized controlled trials in cirrhosis patients are lacking.

As a result, while there is a plausible scientific basis and some preclinical and limited clinical evidence for TUDCA’s use in cirrhosis, current guidelines do not recommend it as a standard therapy for cirrhosis specifically. The evidence base is therefore rated as low to moderate (2/5), reflecting promising mechanisms but insufficient high-quality clinical data.

More about Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid
More about Cirrhosis of the Liver

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