Maralixibat chloride is a medication used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a chronic liver disease. It is a first-in-class inhibitor of the apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (ASBT), a transporter protein found in the small intestine. By blocking ASBT, Maralixibat chloride reduces the absorption of bile acids, which can reduce bile production in the liver and decrease bile acid levels in the blood. This can help slow the progression of PBC and improve liver function. Maralixibat chloride is available as a capsule and is taken orally once daily.
Maralixibat chloride, sold under the brand name Livmarli, is a medication used to treat cholestatic pruritus (intense itching) in people with Alagille syndrome . Alagille syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects the liver, heart, and other parts of the body.
Maralixibat chloride is an ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor. IBAT is a protein found in the intestines that helps to reabsorb bile acids from the gut back into the liver. By blocking IBAT, maralixibat chloride reduces the amount of bile acid that is reabsorbed and instead allows it to be eliminated in the stool. This can help to reduce itching in people with Alagille syndrome.
The most common side effects of maralixibat chloride include diarrhea and abdominal pain. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.
Maralixibat chloride was approved for medical use in the United States in September 2021 and in the European Union in December 2022. It is important to note that maralixibat chloride is a prescription medication and should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.