TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid)
A water-soluble bile acid used by biohackers for liver support, cellular stress protection, and gut/bile flow. TUDCA is one of the most searched liver-protective compounds, especially alongside oral compounds or hormone protocols.
How it works
Acts as a chemical chaperone that reduces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inhibits apoptosis, protects mitochondria, improves bile flow and solubility, and provides neuroprotective and cytoprotective effects.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: 571.81 Da
- Half-life: Variable (enterohepatic recirculation)
- Bioavailability: Moderate oral
- Storage: Room temperature, keep dry.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: 250-500 mg per day
- Frequency: 1-2x daily
- Duration: Cycled or ongoing
- Route: Oral capsule
Protocol notes
- Liver support: 250-500 mg/day, often on an empty stomach.
- During oral compound cycles (e.g. orals that stress the liver), 500 mg/day is common.
- Split dosing (250 mg twice daily) can improve tolerance.
Reported benefits
- Liver protection and enzyme normalization
- Improved bile flow
- Reduced ER stress
- Mitochondrial protection
- Neuroprotective potential
- Gut barrier support
Possible side effects
- Mild GI discomfort
- Diarrhea at high doses
- Rare nausea
Research
- TUDCA and hepatic ER stress (2021): Reduced markers of ER stress and improved insulin sensitivity in metabolic-syndrome models.
- TUDCA neuroprotection (2020): Demonstrated anti-apoptotic and neuroprotective effects in models of neurodegeneration.
Compare TUDCA
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.