Drugs & Vitamins

Questran Active Ingredients: Cholestyramine Powder for Suspension Representative Names: Prevalite, Questran, Questran Light Available Product Images: What is cholestyramine oral suspension? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with cholestyramine? What side effects may I notice from taking cholestyramine? What should I watch for while taking cholestyramine? Where can I keep my medicine? What is cholestyramine oral suspension? (Back to top) CHOLESTYRAMINE (Prevalite®, Questran®, Questran® Light) absorbs and combines with bile acids, which increases removal of cholesterol from the body through the stool. It lowers blood fats and cholesterol for patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke. It is only for patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet. It is not a cure. Cholestyramine also helps to relieve itching in patients with liver disease. Generic cholestyramine powder for oral suspension is available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •bleeding problems or blood vessel disease •constipation •difficulty swallowing •gall bladder disease •hemorrhoids •kidney disease •phenylketonuria •stomach problems •under active thyroid •an unusual or allergic reaction to cholestyramine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I take this medicine? (Back to top) Do not take cholestyramine powder in the dry form. It must be taken by mouth in a liquid form. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Place the powder in a glass or cup. Add between 2 and 6 ounces of fluid; this can be water, milk, pulpy fruit juice, fluid soup, or other liquid. Mix well and drink all the liquid. Rinse the glass with more liquid, stir and drink to make sure you take the full dose. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with cholestyramine? (Back to top) •entacapone •heart medicines such as digoxin or digitoxin •methotrexate •penicillin G •phytonadione •propranolol •tetracycline antibiotics •thyroid hormones •ursodiol •vitamin A •vitamin D •warfarin •water pills In general, take other medicines at least 1 hour before, or 4 hours after a dose of cholestyramine, to avoid cholestyramine interfering with their absorption. Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from taking cholestyramine? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •bloody or black, tarry stools •unusual bleeding •severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting •weight loss Call your prescriber or health care professional as soon as you can if you get any of these side effects. Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •constipation •diarrhea •dizziness •headache •heartburn, indigestion •loss of appetite •nausea, vomiting •skin rash or irritation, including the tongue and perianal area •stomach upset, belching, bloating What should I watch for while taking cholestyramine? (Back to top) Cholestyramine will not cure your condition, but taken regularly it will help keep down your cholesterol level. Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking cholestyramine, except on your prescriber's advice. Cholestyramine is only part of a total cholesterol-lowering program. Your physician or dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet that will reduce your risk of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule. Drink plenty of water while you are taking cholestyramine, to reduce the chance of getting constipated. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:07/16/2003 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.