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ursodeoxycholic acid

(Science: chemical) epimer of chenodeoxycholic acid. It is a mammalian bile acid found first in the bear and is apparently either a precursor or a product of chenodeoxycholate. Its administration changes the composition of bile and may dissolve gallstones. It is used as a cholagogue and choleretic.

Pharmacological action: cholagogues and choleretics, gastrointestinal agents.

Chemical name: Cholan-24-oic acid, 3,7-dihydroxy-, (3alpha,5beta,7beta)-