What is the best litholytic agent for gallstones?

Generally, gallstones can be treated with medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, compound azintamide enteric-coated tablets, Danning tablets, and anti-inflammatory bile-promoting tablets. Medication use should be under the guidance of a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Ursodeoxycholic Acid Tablets

Ursodeoxycholic acid inhibits cholesterol synthesis in the liver, reduces cholesterol content in bile, and simultaneously increases bile acid secretion, thereby decreasing the saturation of cholesterol in bile. This leads to gradual dissolution of cholesterol stones. It is suitable for patients with normal gallbladder function, small stone diameter, and stones primarily composed of cholesterol.

2. Chenodeoxycholic Acid Capsules

Chenodeoxycholic acid can alter the ratio of cholesterol to bile acids in bile, enhancing bile's capacity to dissolve cholesterol and thus promoting dissolution of gallstones. However, when used alone, this medication may have limited litholytic effects and may cause more side effects such as diarrhea and hepatotoxicity. It is usually combined with ursodeoxycholic acid to enhance the stone-dissolving effect.

3. Compound Azintamide Enteric-Coated Tablets

This medication contains azintamide, which promotes bile secretion, pancreatic enzymes that aid in fat digestion, and cellulase that improves digestive function. These components work together to help dissolve gallstones by improving bile secretion and digestive function, providing an auxiliary therapeutic effect for gallstones caused by insufficient bile secretion and digestive dysfunction.

4. Danning Tablets

Danning tablets are a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, primarily composed of rhubarb, polygonum cuspidatum, and other ingredients. It has functions of clearing heat, removing dampness, soothing the liver, and promoting bile flow. To a certain extent, it can improve bile composition and fluidity, assisting in the dissolution of gallstones and preventing further growth of stones. It is particularly suitable for patients with gallstones caused by liver qi stagnation and unresolved damp-heat.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Bile-Promoting Tablets

The main ingredients include andrographis paniculata, rabdosia serra, and others. It has functions of clearing heat, removing dampness, and promoting bile flow. To some extent, it can promote bile excretion and alleviate gallbladder inflammation. For patients with gallstones accompanied by cholecystitis, reducing inflammation and improving the gallbladder's working environment can enhance bile's ability to dissolve stones.

In daily life, appropriately increasing intake of foods rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals while reducing consumption of high-cholesterol foods can help promote cholesterol metabolism and excretion.