Question:
Suppliments to prevent gallbladder attacks with rapid weight loss?

I recently read (and can't remember where) about some type of suppliment, mineral or prescription you can take to help keep the gallbladder healthy during rapid weight loss. Has anyone else heard of this or was I just dreaming? I posted this question with the dietician in our local support meeting. I will post any info I receive.    — Mary S. (posted on August 23, 2001)

August 23, 2001
My Doctor precribed "Actigal" for the first 3 months after surgery. It was to keep my gallbladder healthy during my rapid weight loss. I guess it worked, I've never had any problems!
   — Marnie K.

August 23, 2001
Both mine and my sister's doctors prescribed actigall. I took it; she didnt. My gall bladder seems fine. Hers is giving her attacks (7 months post op) and probably has to be removed. Moral: Take actigall :)
   — Jeannet

August 23, 2001
Hi Mary. My surgeon also prescribed Actigall for me post-op. Note that he routinely removes the GB during his OPen RNY surgeries. However, he felt my GB was healthy enough to stay. At 7 months out, my GB had to be removed anyway. The surgeon that extracted it (different from my RNY surgeon) told me that (in his opinion), Actigall is of little benefit when someone loses extremely fast. My guess is that it will decrease the liklihood of needing to have your GB removed - but no guarantee. Oh well, I guess that as long as the cost is not too expensive, you might as well take it - it's very unlikely to do any harm. Good luck to you !!! Kevin
   — meilankev

August 27, 2001
Mary, My surgeon perscribed URSODIOL 300MG, two tablets taken daily to prevent gallstones. I don't know the success rate with this drug, and I am only seven weeks post-op, so I guess time will tell.
   — Roxanne H.