For patients w/ radiolucent, non-calcified gallbladder stones <20 mm in greatest diameter in whom elective cholecystectomy would be undertaken except for the presence of increased surgical risk due to systemic disease, advanced age, idiosyncratic reaction to general anesth, or for patients who refuse surgery. Prevention of gallstone formation in obese experiencing rapid wt loss.
Monitor liver function parameters eg, AST, ALT & γ-GT every 4 wk during the 1st 3 mth of treatment & every 3 mth thereafter. The gallbladder should be visualized (oral cholecystography) w/ overview & occlusion views in standing & supine positions (ultrasound control) 6-10 mth after the beginning of treatment. Reduce dose if diarrhea occurs & discontinue therapy in cases of persistent diarrhea. Not to be used during lactation.
May reduce effectiveness w/ cholestyramine, charcoal & antacids. May reduce absorption w/ Al-based antacids. May counteract effectiveness by increasing cholesterol elimination in bile w/ oestrogens & clofibrate. Possible increase in ciclosporin serum conc. Decreased effectiveness of dapsone. Possible decrease in serum ciprofloxacin & nitrendipine. Reduced Cmax & AUC of nitrendipine. Reduction of therapeutic effects of dapsone. May increase biliary lithiasis w/ estrogenic hormones & blood cholesterol lowering agents eg, clofibrate.
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