Questran (Cholestyramine) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Questran

Cholesterol »

Cholesterol facts

High cholesterol is also referred to as hypercholesterolemia (hyper=high + cholesterol + emia = in the blood) or hyperlipidemia
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is an important part of the outer lining of cells in the body of animals.
Cholesterol is also found in the blood circulation of humans.
Cholesterol in the blood originates from dietary intake and liver production.
Dietary cholesterol comes primarily from animal sources including meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products.
Organ meats such as liver, are especially high in cholesterol content.
LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called "bad" cholesterol, because elevated levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease.
HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called the "good cholesterol" because HDL cholesterol particles pre...

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Questran Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Cholestyramine Light, Locholest, Locholest Light, Prevalite, Questran, Questran Light

Generic Name: cholestyramine (Pronunciation: koe le STYE ra meen)

What is cholestyramine (Questran)?

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 are the possible side effects of cholestyramine?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

blood in your urine;
severe stomach pain;
ongoing constipation;
feeling short of breath;
black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
easy bruising or bleeding.

Less serious side effects may include:

mild constipation, diarrhea;
stomach pain, nausea, loss of appetite, weight changes;
bloating or gas;
hiccups or a sour taste in your mouth;
skin rash or itching;
irritation of your tongue;
itching or irritation around your rectal area;
muscle or joint pain; or
dizziness, spinning sensation; ringing in your ears.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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.

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