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Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid
Water-soluble bile acid that protects the liver, supports bile flow, reduces ER stress, and aids digestion of fats.
What the evidence says
TUDCA appears to help in 5 of 5 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality randomised trials published 2006–2026 with a typical study size of 23 participants.
Based on 37 studies · 13 RCTs · 752 total participants
Confidence
ModerateWhat the studies found
By outcome
TUDCA has an evidence score of 8.5/10 — very strong evidence based on 37 indexed studies. Water-soluble bile acid that protects the liver, supports bile flow, reduces ER stress, and aids digestion of fats.
The commonly studied dose of TUDCA is 250-500mg daily for general support; up to 1500mg for therapeutic use. Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 1250mg, with a minimum effective dose near 500mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take TUDCA is between meals. It can be taken on an empty stomach. TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a water-soluble bile acid conjugate that acts as a chemical chaperone, reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress and protecting hepatocytes from toxic bile acid accumulation.
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Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 38 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
TUDCA is a taurine-conjugated form of ursodeoxycholic acid, a bile acid naturally found in small amounts in humans and more abundantly in bear bile (now synthesized). It has powerful hepatoprotective effects, reduces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and supports healthy bile flow. Used clinically for liver diseases and increasingly popular for liver support, gut health, and metabolic optimization.
Reduces cellular stress that damages tissues
Protects liver cells from damage
Promotes healthy bile secretion
How TUDCA works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
250-500mg daily for general support; up to 1500mg for therapeutic use
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊TUDCA capsules (pure tauroursodeoxycholic acid) | Recommended |
| 💊UDCA (ursodeoxycholic acid — prescription in many countries) | Alternative |
TUDCA is more water-soluble and may have better absorption than UDCA.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off. Can use continuously at lower doses under medical supervision.
Note: Taking with fat-containing meals supports bile function. Can split into 2 doses.
Based on one phase 3 RCT in ALS showing modest functional improvement and systematic reviews suggesting neuroprotective effects. Effect size is conservative given single disease population study and limited human data for other neurological conditions.
Improved liver enzyme levels
Better digestion of dietary fats
Improved insulin sensitivity markers
Insufficient data; avoid without medical guidance
May bind TUDCA — take separately
May reduce absorption
Tip: Reduce dose; take with food
Tip: Take with meals
TUDCA is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are diarrhea, GI discomfort. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Bile duct obstruction; Severe liver disease (without supervision).
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