Urso- how long does it take to work?

[RB28]

I've had abnormal LFT's that were discovered while I was pregnant. After delivery of my baby I thought they would go back to normal but they have continued to increase. Doctors have still to give me a firm diagnosis but say it could be PBC. I've been on urso for almost a month and LFTs havnt changed much. How long does it take for LFTs to start to decline? I have normal bilirubin and I'm Ama negative.

[liver-bird]

Dear RB28 - why don`t you contact the experts at the PBC Foundation. You can click on their icon at the top of this page. I am sure they will be able to advise you best. Good luck and do let us know how you get on. Diane

[RB28 in reply to liver-bird]

Thank you. I have contacted them. X

[GrittyReads]

Hi RB28,

I agree with Liver-bird. Have a talk to the advisors at the PBC foundation. The link at the top of the page will take you to the PBC F site, where you will find phone numbers and email address to talk to their trained people.

People can develop PBC, while not testing positive for AMAs, but it is less common. But if they have given you URSO I'm guessing that the liver enzymes that are high, are the ones associated with PBC, but you could ask for a printout of your results - it is your 'right' to have copies, and it would help to be able to tell the PBC person exactly what the results are.

I'm assuming you have seen a liver consultant, but they should have sent your results to your GP, so you can ask at your GP's reception. There may be a small charge for photocopying, but mine don't usually bother if the tests are recent. If not, phone the Consultant's secretary to ask for a copy.

Take care and try not to worry - easier said than done, I know, but try to relax and treat yourself (while eating a good, wholesome diet and keeping up some gentle exercise), as stress is the worst for conditions like this.

You must have enough on your plate with a new baby, so coddle yourself.

Best wishes,

Gritty

[RB28 in reply to GrittyReads]

Thank you Gritty for your advice. X

[PBCFoundation PBC Foundation]

Hello RB28,

I have sent you a message in response to your post with our contact details.

Best wishes

PBC Foundation

[SimbaTutor]

Hi, RB28!

I was diagnosed with PBC in June 2014 and placed on urso. My LFT numbers continued to climb for another 2 months, then started to decline each time they were checked. I reached normal numbers in September 2015 and they were still in normal range when checked in December. My bilirubin has been in the normal range all along. I am positive for the antimitochondrial antibodies and was diagnosed after a liver biopsy. I made changes in diet and activity levels immediately, so it was frustrating when the numbers continued to climb initially. I think more time is needed for you to see changes, but everyone responds differently. Be encouraged. They do come down with the urso.

[RB28 in reply to SimbaTutor]

Thank you SimbaTutor, that is reassuring 😀👍

[chynablue]

Hi RB28,

I think it's still very early. I would give the Ursodiol more time.

Before I started Ursodiol, I avoided alcohol for 4 weeks and kept to a very healthy diet of mainly fruits, vegetables, beans, rice, oats, and small portions of lean meats. It cut my AST and ALT levels in half.

Do you know which LFTs are elevated? Have you had any imaging of the liver or bile ducts? How is your health otherwise?

I've been on Ursodiol and Vitamin D for about 3 months now. I will go back for follow up blood work next week to see how much improvement there is, if any. The doctor warned me that it takes time, and to keep up with the good diet and avoid alcohol regardless of the blood work shows next week. Next month I will see the liver specialist to assess where I'm at and make a plan going forward.