About cholestyramine
Bile acid sequestrant
Used for
- Lowers high LDL cholesterol, usually alongside diet and other treatments.
- Relieves itching caused by partial bile-duct blockage.
- Treats bile-acid diarrhea in selected cases.
Usual adult dose
Cholesterol: usually 4 g once or twice daily; may increase gradually to 8–24 g daily. Itching or diarrhea: dose varies by cause.
Usual dose in children
For high cholesterol in children, dosing is weight-based and specialist-directed; it is not routinely used for itching or diarrhea in children.
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Bloating or gas
- Nausea
- May reduce absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K
Important warnings
- Mix powder thoroughly with fluid; never swallow it dry.
- Separate other medicines by at least 1 hour before or 4–6 hours after.
- May worsen severe constipation or cause bowel blockage.
- Long-term use may impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Pregnancy
Not absorbed into the bloodstream, but may reduce vitamin absorption; use requires clinician review.
Breastfeeding
Not absorbed into the bloodstream; may reduce maternal vitamin absorption. Clinician review is appropriate.
Interactions
- Can reduce absorption of many medicines, including warfarin, thyroid hormone, digoxin, and some antibiotics.
- May reduce absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.