Colestyramine

About colestyramine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as Anion-exchange resins.

Colestyramine has several uses:

- to lower levels of cholesterol and other lipids (fats) in the blood, when other treatments have failed.

- in the prevention of Coronary Heart Disease in men aged 35-59 years.

- to treat pruritus (severe itching) caused by bile (a liquid made up of cholesterol, bile salts and waste products) building up in the liver.

- for the relief of diarrhoea induced by radiation or caused by certain medical conditions such as Crohn's disease.

In the body, cholesterol is oxidised (combined with oxygen) to form bile acids. colestyramine works by attaching to bile acids in the intestine to form an insoluble substance. This substance is not absorbed and passes out of the body. In this way, more cholesterol is oxidised to bile acid and passed out of the body.

Colestyramine is available in oral powder form as 4g/sachet.

It is also sometimes known as: cholestyramine; Questran; Questran-Light. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking colestyramine

Before taking colestyramine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from any disease which results in complete gall bladder obstruction, e.g. gallstones
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take colestyramine

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Colestyramine should be dissolved or mixed in at least 100ml water Before taking. You may also mix colestyramine with skimmed milk, orange or tomato juice, soup or pulpy fruit with a high water content.
• Try to take colestyramine at the same time each day to avoid missing doses.
• If you miss a dose of colestyramine take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual times. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate.
• Colestyramine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of colestyramine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside colestyramine.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• Colestyramine may stop the absorption of other medicines so they should be taken at least 1 hour before this medicine or 4-6 hours after. If you have any problems planning when to take your medicines speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Long-term treatment with colestyramine may reduce the body's absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D & K) and folic acid. If you are concerned about this, discuss taking supplements with your doctor.
• If you have been prescribed colestyramine to lower cholesterol, additional lifestyle changes will help you get the most out of your medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on stopping smoking, exercising, losing weight, eating a low-fat diet and reducing alcohol intake.
• Colestyramine may cause constipation. To prevent constipation it is important to eat a well balanced diet containing roughage (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables). In addition, drink plenty of fluids, 6 to 8 full glasses of liquid each day.

Can colestyramine cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

Constipation, diarrhoea, taste disturbance, skin irritation.

Important: Tell your doctor at once if you experience any unexpected bleeding or bruising.

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store colestyramine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely, out of the reach of children, or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 08/02/2006