Bile acids are used to treat gallstones and primary biliary cholangitis. They also have other uses, such as managing bile acid synthesis disorders and certain rare genetic disorders. Bile acids work by breaking down fats in your digestive system. Bile acid medications also lower the amount of bile in the liver to maintain liver function. These medications typically come as oral pills. Examples include ursodiol (Actigall, Urso 250, Urso Forte), Chenodal (chenodiol), and Ocaliva (obeticholic acid). These treatments can help manage your gallstones and liver problems more effectively.