Brand names
Questran,Questran Light
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Cholestyramine is a resin that binds bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption. Cholesterol in the body is normally converted to bile acids.
Therefore, the Use of cholestyramine results in a reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood. This action on the bile acids makes bowel movements bulkier creating an antidiarrhoeal effect. The action on cholesterol helps people with
hyperlipidaemia (high levels of fat in the blood) who have not responded to dietary measures, and who are at particular risk from heart disease as a result of diabetes or a family history of death from heart attacks.
In liver disorders such as primary biliary cirrhosis, bile salts sometimes accumulate in the bloodstream, and cholestyramine may be prescribed to alleviate any accompanying itching.
Taken in large doses, cholestyramine often causes bloating, mild nausea, and constipation. It may also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb fat and certain fat-soluble vitamins, causing pale, bulky, foul-smelling faeces.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Powder mixed with water, Juice, or soft food.
Frequency and timing of doses
1-4 x daily before meals and at bedtime.
Adult dosage range
4-36g daily.
Onset of effect
Full beneficial effects may not be felt for several weeks.
Duration of action
12-24 hours.
Diet advice
A low-fat, low-calorie diet may be advised for patients who are overweight. Use of this drug may deplete levels of certain vitamins. Supplements may be advised.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. Stopping the drug
Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Adverse effects are more likely if large doses are taken by people over 60.
Minor side effects such as indigestion and abdominal discomfort are rarely a cause for concern. More serious adverse effects are usually the result of vitamin deficiency.
INTERACTIONS
General note.
Cholestyramine reduces the body’s ability to absorb other drugs. It may be necessary to organize a schedule in consultation with your doctor whereby you take other medications at a fixed time before you take cholestyramine. Usually, taking other medications 30 to 60 minutes prior to cholestyramine, or 4 to 6 hours after, solves the problem. The dosage of other drugs may need to be adjusted.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Lipid-lowering drug
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have jaundice.
You have a peptic ulcer.
You suffer from haemorrhoids. You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended under 6 years. Reduced dose necessary in older children.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects.
Driving and hazardous work
No special problems.
Alcohol
Although this drug does not interact with alcohol, your underlying condition may make it inadvisable to take alcohol.
PROLONGED USE
As this drug reduces vitamin absorption, supplements of vitamins A, D, and K and folic acid may be advised.
Monitoring Periodic blood checks are usually required to monitor the level of cholesterol in the blood.
