What is Cholestyramine Light?
Cholestyramine Light is a medication that belongs to the class of bile acid sequestrants. It works by binding to bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract and preventing their reabsorption, which in turn reduces the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. This helps to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. Cholestyramine Light is used primarily for the treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia and as an adjunct therapy in patients with mixed dyslipidemia.
What is Cholestyramine Light used for?
Drug Name: Cholestyramine Light Brand Name: Lochlor or Questran Light (among others) Class: Resin Bile Acid Sequestrant
Cholestyramine Light is a medicated, light-colored powder that comes in various brand names. It belongs to the class of resin bile acid sequestrants and is used for lowering high cholesterol levels in patients. As a cholestatic agent, it acts by binding to bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to their excretion rather than reabsorption. This results in an increased removal of bile acids from the body, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol produced.
Cholestyramine Light has its primary application as a adjunct therapy for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). It is often prescribed alongside diet and exercise to help control low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol levels. Notably, it can also be used in the management of certain types of itching skin conditions, such as pruritus associated with biliary cirrhosis or primary biliary cirrhosis. However, because of its potential to interact with other medications and impact various bodily functions, Cholestyramine Light should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Cholestyramine Light side effects
Common side effects:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Chills
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Flatulence
- Gastrointestinal disorder
- Nausea
- Painful or difficult urination
- Sleeplessness
- Taste disturbances
- Urinary frequency
Rare but serious side effects:
- Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, or hives)
- Liver function tests abnormal
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures
- Skin lesions
- Vomiting
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