1. Chemical Characteristics

  • Chemical Name: 3α,6α-Dihydroxy-5β-cholanic Acid
  • CAS Number: 83-49-8
  • Molecular Formula: C₂₄H₄₀O₄
  • Molecular Weight: 392.57
  • Physical Properties:
    • Appearance: White to pale yellow crystalline powder, bitter taste with a slight fishy odor.
    • Solubility:
      • Freely soluble in ethanol and methanol;
      • Sparingly soluble in acetone and chloroform;
      • Practically insoluble in water and ether.

2. Pharmacological Actions

  • Lipid Metabolism Regulation:
    • Inhibits bile acid synthesis, reduces serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and is indicated for Type Ia or Ib hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis.
    • Lowers cholesterol saturation in bile, preventing gallstone formation.
  • Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects:
    • Suppresses pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Corynebacterium diphtheriae; used in treating chronic bronchitis and respiratory infections.
  • Choleretic Effect:
    • Stimulates bile secretion, alleviates cholestasis, and enhances gallbladder imaging in cholecystography.
  • Immunomodulation:
    • Induces apoptosis and inhibits tumor cell proliferation; clinically applied as adjunctive therapy for acute leukemia.

3. Production and Purification

  • Source: Extracted from bile via saponification, acidification, activated carbon decolorization, and multi-step purification processes.

4. Packaging and Storage

  • Packaging:
    • Standard: 25 kg/cardboard drum;
    • Custom: 1–5 kg aluminum foil packages.
  • Storage: Store in a tightly sealed container, protected from light, in a cool and dry place. Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.

5. Market and Suppliers

  • Primary Manufacturer:
    • Qinghai Xidu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.: Supplies pharmaceutical-grade raw material (CAS: 83-49-8)