Evidence supporting the use of: Bile acid
For the health condition: Gall Stones

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Bile acids, specifically ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), are scientifically validated for the treatment of certain types of gallstones, particularly cholesterol gallstones. UDCA works by decreasing the cholesterol content of bile and gradually dissolving cholesterol-rich gallstones. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated its efficacy in dissolving small, non-calcified gallstones in patients with a functioning gallbladder. The scientific evidence indicates that oral bile acid therapy can lead to complete gallstone dissolution in up to 50% of appropriately selected patients after 6 to 24 months of treatment.

This therapy is generally reserved for patients who are not candidates for surgery or wish to avoid surgery, as it is less effective and much slower than cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder). The main limitations of bile acid therapy include the need for long-term treatment, the possibility of gallstone recurrence, and ineffectiveness against calcified or pigment stones. Guidelines from gastroenterological societies such as the American Gastroenterological Association endorse UDCA as an option for specific patient populations. Commonly used bile acids for this purpose are ursodeoxycholic acid and, less frequently, chenodeoxycholic acid.

In summary, the use of bile acids for gallstone dissolution is scientifically supported, but their use is limited to select cases based on gallstone composition, size, and patient factors.

More about bile acid
More about Gall Stones

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