What is the most important information I should know about cholestyramine?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to cholestyramine, or if you
have a blockage in your stomach or intestines.
Before taking cholestyramine, tell your doctor if you have a thyroid disorder, diabetes,
kidney or liver disease, or chronic constipation.
Avoid taking other medications at the same time you take cholestyramine. Wait at
least 4 to 6 hours after taking cholestyramine before you take any other medications.
What is cholestyramine?
Cholestyramine helps reduce cholesterol (fatty acids) in the blood. High cholesterol is
associated with an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).
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.
Cholestyramine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cholestyramine?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to cholestyramine, or if you
have a blockage in your stomach or intestines.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you
have:
-
a thyroid disorder;
-
diabetes,
-
kidney disease,
-
liver disease, or
-
chronic constipation.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely take cholestyramine.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell
your doctor if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Taking cholestyramine can make it harder for your body to absorb certain
vitamins
your body needs while you are nursing a baby. Do not take cholestyramine without telling your
doctor if you are
breast-feeding.
This medication may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using
cholestyramine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
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