Can we talk gallbladder (can we save this thing with medicine)??

I just picked up my medicine yesterday that is supposed to help save the gallbladder (2x a day) for 6 months.  Of course they can not guarantee it--if you already have gallstones forming, etc. etc.  Can you tell me if you are on this medicine and did it cause any type of effects at all (I really hate to take another medicine, but it could be worth it).  Thanks so much for your opinions/experience with this.

Hi,

I am on a med to protect the gall bladder, twice a day for 6 months.  I've been taking it for about 3 months and no side effects.  I'll be glad to be done with it. 

 

Carol.

Thanks so much Carol!  I sure hate taking another med, especially since I'm doing so well.  But I don't want gallbladder surgery either.  I'm so glad to know you are doing fine with it!  Thanks again.

I was prescribed Urisidol pre op, and I am likely spelling that wrong.  It caused me to retain a TON of fluids, blood in the urine, and overall felt terrible.  First time they said I had a virus.  I had stopped taking it and 2 weeks later talked to the doc at the next appointment.  I started again, and same thing.  Next time, the surgeon said to stop taking it.  I have had no gallbladder issues to date.  

This is good to know Happyteacher--I will keep my eyes open for these effects!  My husband who has lost 200 lbs with RNY hasn't lost his gall bladder either.  Thank you so much for your response!

The docs told me they had never seen anyone respond to that way... I do not think it is typical at all.  I also had no prior issues with the gallbaldder. 

It instantly gave me a rash, with just half of a dose.  I stopped taking it immediately but the rash lasted about 3 months.  good luck!!

Oh my Rubilee, that is not good at all!!! My head is telling me not to take another med, but I so don't want to go thru surgery again soon.  What to do, what to do.  Thank you so much for responding!

Sorry to butt in here I'm RNY. I saw this on the front page and had to chime in.
I was on Actigall 2x a day for 6 months. With absolutely no side effects. At my 6 month check up, the Dr. decided to keep me on it for 3 more months as I was still losing weight very rapidly (still averaging 10 lb/month). On June 18, my gallbladder needed to be removed (8 1/2 months after surgery). The purpose of this medication is to thin the bile so stones do not form. In my case, the medication did work for its intended purpose, I did not have any stones. My gallbladder was simply not functioning properly anymore and could not keep up with how quickly the weight was falling off. If you look at the statistics surrounding using the medication vs not using it, you have a much greater chance of keeping your gallbladder if you do take it for the full 6 months. If course, if you have any adverse reactions or side effects you and your doctor will have to decide if it's worth it.
Good luck on your journey!!

anyone know any 'natural' type remedies for saving their gallbladder  i do have a stone it's just there, doesn't go anywhere.  might get an attack once or twice a year.  having surgery, asked my doctor about 'actigall' but he had never heard of it (i'm in canada)