What is the most effective treatment for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy?

Ursodiol is considered the most effective treatment for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) due to its ability to improve liver function and alleviate symptoms associated with the condition. Ursodiol, a bile acid, promotes bile flow and reduces the accumulation of toxic bile acids in the liver and bloodstream. This reduction helps to relieve pruritus (itching), which is a common and distressing symptom of ICP.

The use of ursodiol in the context of pregnancy is supported by clinical studies showing a reduction in bile acid levels and an improvement in maternal symptoms, which can have a positive impact on fetal outcomes as well. By enhancing bile acid excretion and decreasing cholestasis, ursodiol addresses the underlying issues of the condition effectively.

In contrast, other treatment options do not target the core problem of bile acid retention in the same way. Cholestyramine may alleviate itching but does not influence the underlying liver function or bile acid metabolism effectively in ICP. Steroids are not typically the mainstay treatment for ICP as their effectiveness in managing this condition is less established, while antihistamines may provide symptomatic relief for itching, they do not address the cholestatic component of the disease. Therefore, the choice of ursodiol