Cholestyramine is primarily a cholesterol medication that helps those with high LDL levels lower the amount of bad cholesterol in their blood. It also helps to remove excess bile acid from the intestines, which relieves the symptoms of diarrhea associated with BAD.
Full Answer
What is cholestyramine?
What is this medicine? CHOLESTYRAMINE (koe LESS tir a meen) is used to lower cholesterol in patients who are at risk of heart disease or stroke. This medicine is only for patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
How do you take colestyramine?
Mix the powder from each sachet with at least 150 ml of liquid. You can mix it with water, skimmed milk, thin soup, fruit juice or puréed fruit. Avoid taking any other medicines at the same time as colestyramine. Either take your other medicines one hour before colestyramine, or wait until 4-6 hours afterwards.
What is the cost of cholestyramine powder?
The cost for cholestyramine oral powder for reconstitution (4 g/5.7 g) is around $149 for a supply of 60 powder for reconstitution, depending on the pharmacy you visit.
What are the benefits of colestyramine?
This lowers the amount of cholesterol in your blood and reduces your risk of blood vessel disease. When colestyramine is prescribed for itching or diarrhoea, it helps to control your symptoms by reducing the amount of bile acids in your blood.
Is Cholestyramine expensive?
Cholestyramine costs an average cash price of around $137.69 for 1, 378GM of 4GM/DOSE Powder. A free SingleCare Cholestyramine coupon is available to reduce the price to $30.29 for 1, 378gm of 4gm/dose Can.
Can cholestyramine be bought over the counter?
Cholestyramine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
What tier drug is cholestyramine?
What drug tier is cholestyramine light typically on? Medicare prescription drug plans typically list cholestyramine light on Tier 2 of their formulary. Generally, the higher the tier, the more you have to pay for the medication. Most plans have 5 tiers.
What are the side effects of cholestyramine?
Cholestyramine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:constipation.bloating.stomach pain.gas.upset stomach.vomiting.diarrhea.loss of appetite.More items...•
How do I get rid of bile naturally?
As a result, one way to get rid of bile is by snacking on plenty of fiber....Here are some of the best sources of soluble fiber to include in your bile reflux diet, according to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health:Fruits.Vegetables.Grains like oatmeal.Nuts and seeds.Legumes like lentils and beans.
What are natural bile binders?
Some vegetables that are effective at binding to bile acids include okra, beets, and asparagus. It is well-known that vegetables have numerous health benefits and should be a major part of any diet.
How long can you take cholestyramine?
Constipation: If you have constipation, you should start taking cholestyramine once per day for 5 to 7 days. Then, increase your dosage to twice per day if you're able to. Your doctor may increase your dosage slowly (over several months) to make sure that your constipation doesn't get worse.
How long does it take cholestyramine to start working for diarrhea?
It may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Cholestyramine may decrease your absorption of other medications. Take your other medications as directed by your doctor, usually at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after cholestyramine.
What medications should not be taken with cholestyramine?
According to OBRA, cholestyramine may reduce the absorption of certain other concurrent medications, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, thyroid hormones, digoxin, valproic acid, NSAIDs, sulfonylureas, and warfarin; therefore, these medications should be administered 1 hour before or 4 hours after ...
What happens if bile acid malabsorption is left untreated?
Untreated bile salt malabsorption can increase your risk of forming gallstones and kidney stones. Vitamin B12 is another vital nutrient which is absorbed into the body at the end of the small bowel.
What happens when bile is too much?
Excess bile acids entering the colon can cause the classic signs and symptoms of bile acid malabsorption (BAM), including watery stool, urgency and fecal incontinence. Although BAM has been associated with diarrhea for nearly 50 years, it remains an underrecognized and underdiagnosed cause of chronic diarrhea.
Will cholestyramine cause weight loss?
Furthermore, with clear effects on gastric emptying and appetite, colestyramine now merits consideration as a trial therapeutic strategy for appetite suppression and weight loss.
Can I buy cholestyramine?
This medication requires a prescription.
How long does it take cholestyramine to start working for diarrhea?
It may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Cholestyramine may decrease your absorption of other medications. Take your other medications as directed by your doctor, usually at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after cholestyramine.
How long can you take cholestyramine?
Constipation: If you have constipation, you should start taking cholestyramine once per day for 5 to 7 days. Then, increase your dosage to twice per day if you're able to. Your doctor may increase your dosage slowly (over several months) to make sure that your constipation doesn't get worse.
How much cholestyramine should I take for diarrhea?
Cholestyramine powder is usually administered at a starting dose of 4 g/day, increased as needed to 4 g one to six times/day; in clinical practice, less frequent dosing (eg, 4 g twice/day) is often effective in relieving BAM-associated diarrhea.
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood for the purpose of decreasing the risk of heart disease.
How To Use
Take this medication before meals as prescribed. Do not take medication dry. The medication must be mixed with liquid, soups, cereals or pulpy fruits such as applesauce or crushed pineapple. Stir completely to mix and drink immediately. Rinse the glass with additional liquid and drink to ensure all the medication is taken.
Side Effects
Stomach upset, heartburn, constipation, belching, gas, nausea, loss of appetite, aggravated hemorrhoids, change of taste, headache, or itching may occur. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: unusual bleeding or bruising, severe stomach ache, vomiting.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: constipation, hemorrhoids, diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism), stomach/intestinal disease, gall bladder disease, kidney disease, liver disease, unusual bleeding or bruising, any allergies. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: digitoxin, digoxin, diuretics ("water pills"), penicillin G, phenobarbital, phenylbutazone, propranolol, tetracycline, thyroid, warfarin or other "blood thinners", vitamin A/D/E, antidepressants, hydrocortisone, estrogens and progestins (e.g., birth control pills), troglitazone.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe constipation.
How much does cholestyramine cost?
The cost for Cholestyramine Light oral powder for reconstitution (4 g/5 g) is around $67 for a supply of 210 grams, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Prices are for cash paying customers only and are not valid with insurance plans.
What is Cholestyramine Light?
Cholestyramine Light offers may be in the form of a printable coupon, rebate, savings card, trial offer, or free samples. Some offers may be printed right from a website, others require registration, completing a questionnaire, or obtaining a sample from the doctor's office.
How much does a free drug card save?
The free Drugs.com Discount Card works like a coupon and can save you up to 80% or more off the cost of prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs and pet prescriptions.
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. High levels of cholesterol may block the blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease. For best results, this medication must be used along with an exercise program and a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet.
How To Use
Swallow each tablet, one at a time, with a mouthful (1 ounce, 30 mls) of water or other liquid. This medication may be taken with food. This medication can interfere with other medications if taken at the same time. Try to take other medications one hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking this drug.
Side Effects
Constipation, stomach upset, heartburn, belching, gas, nausea, loss of appetite, aggravated hemorrhoids, change of taste, headache, or itching may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: constipation, hemorrhoids, hypothyroidism, diabetes, stomach or intestinal problems, gall bladder problems, kidney or liver problems, unusual bleeding or bruising, allergies (especially drug allergies). Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctor.
Drug Interactions
Before you take this medication, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you take, especially of: digitoxin, digoxin, diuretics (water pills), penicillin G, phenobarbital, phenylbutazone, propranolol, thyroid, tetracycline, warfarin and other blood thinners, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach pain or severe constipation.
What is colestyramine powder?
About colestyramine. Colestyramine is a powder which works in the body as a bile acid sequestrant. This means that it binds to bile acids in your digestive system. It prevents bile acids from being reabsorbed (recycled) into your body, and this action can be useful in a number of different conditions.
Why do you take colestyramine sachets?
You may be prescribed colestyramine sachets to help lower the amount of cholesterol in your blood, or to reduce itching caused by a problem in your bile ducts (such as primary biliary cirrhosis ), or to help reduce diarrhoea caused by certain medical conditions or treatments.
What is a powder that binds to bile acids?
Sachets of powder. Colestyramine is a powder which works in the body as a bile acid sequestrant. This means that it binds to bile acids in your digestive system. It prevents bile acids from being reabsorbed (recycled) into your body, and this action can be useful in a number of different conditions.
How long before taking colestyramine can you take water?
Colestyramine sachets. Mix the powder from each sachet with at least 150 ml of liquid. You can mix it with water, skimmed milk, thin soup, fruit juice or puréed fruit. Avoid taking any other medicines at the same time as colestyramine. Either take your other medicines one hour before colestyramine, or wait until 4-6 hours afterwards.
What to tell the person carrying out the treatment?
If you are having an operation or dental treatment , tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Can you take colestyramine and other medicines at the same time?
Avoid taking any other medicines at the same time as you take colestyramine because it can stop the other medicines from being absorbed by your body. Either take your other medicines at least an hour before you take colestyramine, or wait until 4-6 hours after taking colestyramine before you take the other medicines. If you have any problems planning when to take your medicines, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Can you mix colestyramine with milk?
If you prefer, you can also mix colestyramine with skimmed milk, soup, fruit juice or fruit smoothies. Do not take the powder without mixing it into some liquid first. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Try to take the correct number of sachets each day.
How does cholestyramine work?from mayoclinic.org
Cholestyramine works by attaching to certain substances in the intestine. Since cholestyramine is not absorbed into the body, these substances also pass out of the body without being absorbed. Cholestyramine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
How long does cholestyramine help with bile?from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The study showed a 13% decrease in plasma glucose levels in patients after using 8 grams of cholestyramine twice daily for six weeks. [3][4] Cholestyramine can be used in patients with bile-acid diarrhea or choleretic enteropathy due to limited ileal disease or resection.
Why do you take cholestyramine with breakfast?from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Cholestyramine should ideally be taken with breakfast when it is given to treat pruritus associated with cholestasis. Symptoms of pruritus are less frequent in the morning as it is believed that the pruritogenic factors are concentrated in the gallbladder during overnight fasting.
How long does it take for cholestyramine to reduce LDL?from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
One to two weeks is adequate to attain maximal LDL-Cholesterol reduction. A maximal dose of cholestyramine (24 gram) may reduce LDL cholesterol by as much as 25%. However, this will also lead to gastrointestinal side effects, which are often not well tolerated. [1]
What is the primary indication for cholestyramine?from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Cholestyramine Primary Indications. Used for patient treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia. The reduction in LDL Cholesterol by the resin is dose-dependent. A dose of 8-12 gram of Cholestyramine is associated with a 12% to 18% reduction in LDL-Cholesterol.
What is psyllium used for?from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Psyllium for the reduction of cholestyramine-associated gastrointestinal symptoms in the treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia.
Why does cholestyramine decrease palatability?from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Decreased palatability due to gritty sensation from drinking the powdered solution of cholestyramine.
How should I use this medicine?
Do not take this medicine in the dry form. It must be mixed with a liquid before swallowing. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Place the powder in a glass or cup. Add between 2 and 6 ounces of fluid. This can be water, milk, pulpy fruit juice, fluid soup, or other liquid. Mix well and drink all of the liquid. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your blood fats and other tests will be measured from time to time.
How to reduce folic acid?
Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule. To reduce the chance of getting constipated, drink plenty of water and increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice if you are constipated. This medicine may cause a decrease in folic acid.
Is a low cholesterol diet good for heart disease?
This medicine is only part of a total cholesterol-lowering program. Your health care professional or dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet that will reduce your risk of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.
Important Note
- The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. CHOLESTYRAMINE, COLESTIPOL - ORAL POWD…
Uses
- This medication is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood for the purpose of decreasing the risk of heart disease.
How to Use
- Take this medication before meals as prescribed. Do not take medication dry. The medication must be mixed with liquid, soups, cereals or pulpy fruits such as applesauce or crushed pineapple. Stir completely to mix and drink immediately. Rinse the glass with additional liquid and drink to ensure all the medication is taken. This medication can interfere with other medications if taken …
Side Effects
- Stomach upset, heartburn, constipation, belching, gas, nausea, loss of appetite, aggravated hemorrhoids, change of taste, headache, or itching may occur. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: unusual bleeding or bruising, severe stomach ache, vomiting. If you notice other effects no...
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: constipation, hemorrhoids, diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism), stomach/intestinal disease, gall bladder disease, kidney disease, liver disease, unusual bleeding or bruising, any allergies. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits …
Drug Interactions
- Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: digitoxin, digoxin, diuretics ("water pills"), penicillin G, phenobarbital, phenylbutazone, propranolol, tetracycline, thyroid, warfarin or other "blood thinners", vitamin A/D/E, antidepressants, hydrocortisone, estrogens and progestins (e.g., birth control pills), troglitazone. Do not start or st…
Overdose
- If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe constipation.
Notes
- Your doctor may periodically perform lab tests during treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication. Know what your cholesterol level is and understand what it means. Your doctor, pharmacist or nutritionist can provide you with valuable information. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
Important Note
- The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. CHOLESTYRAMINE - ORAL TABLET (ko-less-TEE…
Uses
- This medication is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. High levels of cholesterol may block the blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease. For best results, this medication must be used along with an exercise program and a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This medication is also used to treat itching caused by gall bladder obstruction and specialized cases of diarrhea.
How to Use
- Swallow each tablet, one at a time, with a mouthful (1 ounce, 30 mls) of water or other liquid. This medication may be taken with food. This medication can interfere with other medications if taken at the same time. Try to take other medications one hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking this drug. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to help establish ...
Side Effects
- Constipation, stomach upset, heartburn, belching, gas, nausea, loss of appetite, aggravated hemorrhoids, change of taste, headache, or itching may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: unusual bleeding or bruising, severe stomach ache, vomiting. If you notice oth…
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: constipation, hemorrhoids, hypothyroidism, diabetes, stomach or intestinal problems, gall bladder problems, kidney or liver problems, unusual bleeding or bruising, allergies (especially drug allergies). Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctor.
Drug Interactions
- Before you take this medication, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you take, especially of: digitoxin, digoxin, diuretics (water pills), penicillin G, phenobarbital, phenylbutazone, propranolol, thyroid, tetracycline, warfarin and other blood thinners, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
- If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach pain or severe constipation.
Notes
- Your doctor may periodically perform lab tests during treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication. Know what your cholesterol level is and understand what it means. Your doctor, pharmacist or nutritionist can provide you with valuable information. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.