Is it safe to take Ocaliva as a PBC treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

My hepatologist has recommended Ocaliva as a part of my treatment plan for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), as I was recently diagnosed with. Could you elaborate on the specifics of how Ocaliva's PBC management approach works, including expected results and any side effects? Do I also need to be aware of any monitoring requirements or lifestyle changes while receiving Ocaliva therapy for primary biliary cholangitis?Kindly help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Ocaliva (Obeticholic acid) is a newer medication for PBC (primary biliary cholangitis). It is usually used with ursodeoxycholic acid (bile acid). However, it can be used alone if the patient does not react to or tolerate Ursodeoxycholic acid.

There have been no serious adverse effects shown with this recently permitted medicine for PBC, although itching, fatigue, or stomach discomfort are possible side effects. Because PBC is essentially an autoimmune illness, treatment will be prolonged. However, the exact period will rely on your response to medicine, liver function test patterns, and ultrasound imaging of the liver or, in some instances, a fibro scan of the liver to determine the fibrosis grade of the liver.

Lifestyle changes include avoiding second stressors to the liver, such as alcohol and fatty liver, as well as standard precautions for hepatitis B and C should be followed.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.