What is Ocaliva? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Ocaliva overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Ocaliva

Generic Names:

  • Ocaliva

Uses:

  • Treats primary biliary cholangitis (swelling of the bile duct).

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Gastrointestinal Agent

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Ocaliva used for?

Ocaliva is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. This condition damages the bile duct of the liver and causes bile acid to build up and damage the liver tissue. Ocaliva decreases the amount of bile made by the liver, stopping it from building up and damaging the liver.

What form(s) does Ocaliva come in?

  • Tablet

What are common Ocaliva dosages?

  • Tablet 5MG

  • Tablet 10MG

Ocaliva images - What does Ocaliva look like?

  • Ocaliva
    10mg tablet

  • Ocaliva
    5mg tablet

How to take Ocaliva

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

What to do if you miss a dose of Ocaliva

Ocaliva contraindications - Who shouldn't take Ocaliva?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to obeticholic acid.

Ocaliva warnings

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, high cholesterol, or biliary blockage.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Liver problemsHigh cholesterol levels

Ocaliva interactions & what to avoid when taking Ocaliva

  • Some medicines may affect how obeticholic acid works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:Cyclosporine, theophylline, tizanidineBlood thinner (including warfarin)

  • If you are taking cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam, take Ocaliva® at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after these medicines.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Ocaliva side effects - How does Ocaliva make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Dark-colored urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes

  • Muscle or joint pain

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Sore throat

  • Tiredness or weakness

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Muscle or joint pain

  • Tiredness or weakness

  • Dizziness

  • Sore throat

  • Constipation, stomach pain and discomfort

Browse drugs A-Z:

View all
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Subscribe to our savings newsletter

Health education, drug info, wellness & more

By clicking 'Subscribe', I agree to SingleCare's Terms & Conditions.