Treatment

There is no specific treatment, which is curative. The aim of treatment is to slow the disease progression, alleviate symptoms and delay the onset of complications.

The main drug used to treat primary biliary cirrhosis is ursodeoxycholic acid. It seems to protect against the destruction of bile ducts. It helps to some degree to alleviate pruritus but does not help symptoms of fatigue. Other drugs may be tried with varying benefit to modify the disease process; these include methotrexate, steroids, and colchicine

Chloestyramineis prescribed to help with intense itching. Colestipolis an alternative and anti-histamines may be helpful.

A number of drugs are given in the later stages to treat the lack of fat-soluble vitamins. These include supplements of vitamins A, D and E that may be given orally and by/or injection. Vitamin K is given by injection to those who may be prone to abnormal bleeding.

Liver transplantation may be an option for some people. This includes those with end stage liver failure and its complications, whose life expectancy is limited to a few months. Development of hepato-cellular carcinoma is also an indication for transplantation. Some people with intractable symptoms such as intense itching and very debilitating fatigue may be offered a liver transplant at an earlier stage to improve their quality of life.