About chenodeoxycholic acid
Primary bile acid; bile acid replacement
Used for
- Treats cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis, a rare inherited disorder of bile acid production.
Usual adult dose
Usually 750 mg daily, divided into three doses; specialist-adjusted according to response.
Usual dose in children
Usually 5–15 mg/kg daily, divided into two or three doses; specialist-adjusted.
Common side effects
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Raised liver enzymes
Important warnings
- Liver function monitoring is required during treatment.
- May cause or worsen liver problems.
- Treatment should be managed by a specialist familiar with this rare disorder.
Pregnancy
Limited pregnancy information; use only when a specialist considers treatment necessary.
Breastfeeding
Limited information; discuss potential risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- Bile acid sequestrants, such as cholestyramine, can reduce absorption; separate doses.
- Aluminium-containing antacids can reduce absorption; separate doses.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.