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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Chenodal, Chenix, Actigall
Bile acids are steroidal acids primarily produced in the liver from cholesterol. They are essential for the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. Bile acids act as detergents, emulsifying fats into smaller droplets, increasing the surface area for enzymatic digestion. They also facilitate the absorption of these digested fats by forming micelles, which transport them to the intestinal lining for uptake. Bile acids are categorized based on their chemical structure and conjugation state (e.g., with taurine or glycine).
For treatment of bile acid deficiency and certain liver diseases related to impaired bile flow.
Outcome:
Increased risk of gallstones
Mechanism:
Altered cholesterol metabolism
Outcome:
Altered bile acid metabolism
Mechanism:
Changes in gut microbiota
Outcome:
May slightly reduce bile acid absorption
Mechanism:
Binding of bile acids
Most likely new formulation: controlled-release bile acid analogs for improved efficacy and reduced side effects (2025, 70% confidence).
Based on current research and clinical trials, the likelihood of new bile acid-based therapies for liver diseases being approved in the next 5 years is approximately 60%.
Steroid Acid, Digestive Agent
Cholane