NCLEX-RN

Category - Pharmacological

Janice visited her physician for a follow-up visit. About three weeks ago, her physician discovered small stones in her gallbladder, and she was prescribed with Actigall (ursodiol) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). The nurse is aware that a combination of these drugs benefits the patient by:
  1. Preventing gall stone formation.
  2. Dissolving gallstones that contain calcium.
  3. Increasing hepatic function.
  4. Avoiding recurrence of gallstones in the future.
Explanation
Answer: A - Actigall and CDCA act primarily by dissolving small gallstones that are non-calcified and radiolucent, not radiopaque. These drugs prevent the formation of gallstones during rapid weight loss. This combination does not directly affect the level of hepatic function. However, it plays a significant role in preventing disease progression. For a better success rate, the patient’s response to the therapy is monitored by testing at regular intervals. Based on these tests, the physician can increase or decrease the dosage.
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