Sign inBefore 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 know you have any obstruction of your gall bladder, such as gallstones.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take colestyramine
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Colestyramine should be mixed with at least 150ml water before taking. You may also mix colestyramine with skimmed milk, soup, fruit juice or pulpy fruit with a high water content.
- Try to take colestyramine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
- If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
- Colestyramine may stop the absorption of other medicines so these 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 with 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. Your doctor will advise you if you need to take a vitamin supplement.
- 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.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Can colestyramine cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Possible side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Constipation | Try to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day |
| Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids |
| Feeling sick, being sick, stomach ache | Eat little and often. Stick to simple or bland foods - avoid rich and spicy foods |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store colestyramine
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Questran® Powder, Bristol-Myers Pharmaceuticals, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2010
- British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)