Obeticholic Acid
Ocaliva (obeticholic acid) is a prescription medication used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a chronic liver disease characterized by inflammation and destruction of the bile ducts. It works by activating farnesoid X receptors in the liver, which helps reduce bile acid buildup and improve liver function. This medication is typically used in combination with ursodeoxycholic acid or alone for patients who cannot tolerate other treatments.
Ocaliva is a bile acid medication used to treat primary biliary cholangitis by reducing bile acid buildup in the liver.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1798365
- Generic
- Ocaliva
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Ocaliva is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), either in combination with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) for patients with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy for patients unable to tolerate UDCA.
Ocaliva contains obeticholic acid, a semi-synthetic bile acid derivative that acts as an agonist for the farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Activation of FXR helps regulate bile acid synthesis, transport, and metabolism in the liver, reducing the accumulation of toxic bile acids.
Ocaliva may cause serious liver problems and requires regular liver function monitoring. Common side effects include severe pruritus (itching) and fatigue. It should not be used in patients with complete biliary obstruction. A dose titration schedule is typically used to help manage side effects. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider experienced in treating liver diseases is essential.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy