[Multicenter study on the litholytic effect of ursodeoxycholic acid. 30 cases]

In the context of a cooperative clinical trial carried out in the Cantons of Basel and Vaud, Switzerland, the litholytic effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursochol) in a daily dose of 9 mg/kg was investigated in 42 patients with radiotransparent gallstones. The litholytic effect was evident in 22 (73%) of the 30 patients followed up for a maximum period of 1 year. Complete dissolution of gallstones was obtained in 40% of cases. In addition, ursodeoxycholic acid significantly reduced (p less than 0,001) the dyspeptic-painful symptoms and the number of biliary colics. Tolerance was excellent. In particular, no cases of diarrhea were observed.