What is cholestyramine packet used for?

Descriptions. Cholestyramine is used to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood. This may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol clogging the blood vessels. Cholestyramine is also used to remove substances called bile acids from your body.

Is cholestyramine powder used for diarrhea?

Recap. 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.

How much cholestyramine is in a packet?

Each pouch or scoopful is 4 grams. You may slowly raise your dose up to 2 to 4 pouches or scoopfuls a day divided into two doses. The maximum daily dose is 6 pouches or scoopfuls in one day.

What is cholestyramine 4gm packets?

Cholestyramine is used to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (“bad” cholesterol). Cholestyramine powder is also used to treat itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder.

When should you take cholestyramine?

Take this medication before a meal and/or at bedtime, and try to take any other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after you take cholestyramine because cholestyramine can interfere with their absorption. Continue to take cholestyramine even if you feel well.

How long does it take for cholestyramine to take effect?

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 are the side effects of cholestyramine powder?

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.

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.

Does cholestyramine make you gain weight?

Miscellaneous: Weight loss, weight gain, increased libido, swollen glands, edema, dental bleeding, dental caries, erosion of tooth enamel, tooth discoloration.

What are the side effects of cholestyramine?

Is cholestyramine used to treat IBS?

Questran (cholestyramine) and Bentyl (dicyclomine) are used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Questran and Bentyl are different types of drugs. Questran is a cholesterol-lowering agent used to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (“bad” cholesterol).

What is the best time of day to take cholestyramine?