What Are The Uses Of Cholestyramine?

Cholestyramine, a bile acid sequestrate (quaternary ammonium group), is used in the treatment of following  conditions:

• High cholesterol levels in blood
• Itching caused by bile duct blockage

What Are The Side Effects Of Cholestyramine?

The most common side effects of Cholestyramine are:

• Gas (or) bloating
• Stomach upset
• Constipation
• Dizziness/vomiting
• Indigestion / heart burn
• Loss of appetite

Some severe ( but rare) side effects are:

• Unusual bleeding
• Rash, hives
• Black or bloody stools
• Chest tightness
• Swelling of mouth / face / lips / tongue
• Unusual bruising

Please consult a physician if the symptoms are persistent.

What Are The Contraindications Of Cholestyramine?

Please inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Hyper sensitivity towards the drug Cholestyramine or any other allergies.
• Diabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Kidney disease
• Nephritic syndrome
• Obstructive liver disease
• Dysproteinemia 
• Alcoholism