Cholestyramine: Questran, Prevalite, Lo-Cholest
Type of medication:
Part of group of medications called bile acid binders or resins. Cholestyramine is prescribed, along with dietary changes, to reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol) and total cholesterol. LDL is a lipid found in your blood and is also called bad cholesterol.Cholestyramine is used to lower these blood levels:
Low density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol : cholesterol particle produced by your liver; its job is to transport cholesterol around your body
Cholestyramine may also slightly raise these blood levels: High density lipoprotein or HDL cholesterol :good cholesterol Triglycerides : other form of fat that circulates in the bloodstream. High levels of LDL cholesterol are related to heart disease. Cholestyramine helps lower these levels and raise HDL cholesterol. High levels of HDL cholesterol are linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Cholestyramine is a safe medication and will effectively lower your cholesterol without getting into your bloodstream.
How cholestyramine does work:
Cholestyramine works by attaching to bile acids in the intestine and both are removed from the body as waste. As the body loses bile acids, it replaces them by converting cholesterol from the blood to bile acids. This causes the blood levels of cholesterol and LDL cholesterol to decrease.When and how should I take cholestyramine?
Cholestyramine comes in a powder form. The starting dose is one to four packets per day. Your prescription label will tell you how much to take at each dose. Add the prescribed amount of powder to a glassful of water and stir until completely mixed. Take cholestyramine right before a meal, no more than one half hour before eating, because this is the time when the greatest amount of bile acid is in the intestine.Special instructions to follow while using cholestyramine:
Before you take cholestyramine tell your docter about other medications you are taking (especially digoxin, beta blockers, thyroid hormone and anticoagulant medications, such as Coumadin). Cholestyramine may affect the absorption of these medications, so your doctor has to change the doses. Take your other medications either 1 hour before or 3 to 4 hours after your cholestyramine dose.How soon will I see results?
There will be cholesterol lowering results within 4 weeks after taking cholestyramine. LDL cholesterol lowers by 15 to 30 percent and a slightly raise of triglyceride and HDL cholesterol level.Side effects:
Side effects mainly affect the stomach and intestines. Side effects are usually mild and taper off within a few weeks, once your body has adjusted to the medication. Common side effects: Heartburn, bloating or gas ConstipationCall your doctor if you:
Develop a skin rash. Experience persistent or severe side effects. Develop new symptoms after starting this medication or after your dose has been changed. Have any other symptoms that cause concern. Have any other questions or concerns.Flights to Dubai - Elbow Pain - Weight Loss Success Story - Aortic Stenosis - Business Gifts