What is Cholestyramine?
Cholestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant used in the treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). It works by binding to bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to their excretion and a decrease in the production of new bile acids. This ultimately results in an increase in liver cholesterol levels, stimulating the breakdown of cholesterol into bile acids. By reducing cholesterol production, Cholestyramine helps lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, thereby improving overall lipid profiles. It is often prescribed as a monotherapy or used adjunctively with other lipid-lowering agents.
What is Cholestyramine used for?
Cholestyramine, also known as Questran, is a bile acid sequestrant medication used to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to the class of medications called resins, which work by binding to bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract and preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream.
As a result, the liver must produce more bile acids, which requires the use of cholesterol as a building block. This process ultimately leads to a decrease in the amount of cholesterol available for absorption from the diet, resulting in lower total cholesterol levels. Cholestyramine is often used in combination with other lipid-lowering medications, such as statins, to treat hyperlipidemia and manage conditions like primary hypercholesterolemia.
Cholestyramine has been shown to be effective in reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. It is usually taken orally with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, as it can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if not administered properly. Patients on cholestyramine therapy should adhere strictly to their prescribed dosing regimen to maximize its effectiveness while minimizing potential adverse reactions.
Cholestyramine side effects
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Itching
- Nausea
- Rash
- Stomach cramps
- Vomiting
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