This article explains how and when cholestyramine is used to treat chronic diarrhea.
It also describes how the drug is taken along with the possible risks and side effects.
Cholestyramine Brand Names
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What Is Cholestyramine?
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Cholestyramine works by binding to bile acids and removing them from the body in stools.
What Is Bile?
Bile is a fluid produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder that aids with digestion.
Bile breaks down fats into fatty acids, which are then absorbed in the digestive tract.
Bile acids make up around 80% of the organic compounds in bile.
Cholesterol is another major component of bile.
This helps lower cholesterol levels.
The same mechanism of action can alleviate cholestasis-related itching.
These acids irritate nerves and cause itching.
By lowering bile acid levels, itching is relieved.
How Does Cholestyramine Help With Diarrhea?
Under normal circumstances, bile is reabsorbed and returned to the liver after it has broken down dietary fats.
Are Cholestyramine and Imodium the Same?
Cholestyramine is not the same asImodium (loperamide).
This, in turn, helps increase the absorption of water in stools.
Other Off-Label Uses
Cholestyramine may also be used off-label to treatGrave’s disease.
This is an autoimmune disorder that causes an overproduction of thyroid hormones (thyrotoxicosis).
When Should You Take Cholestyramine?
Phenylketonuria(PKU)is a genetic disorder characterized by the inability to break down a protein calledphenylalanine.
It is also available as a chewable bar.
When used for diarrhea, cholestyramine is typically prescribed at 4 grams (g) per day.
If needed, the dose can be increased to 4 g six times per day.
Drink the liquid quickly and brush your teeth regularly to avoid dental problems.
Side Effects of Cholestyramine
As with all drugs, cholestyramine can cause side effects.
People over age 60 are at highest risk.
Cholestyramine needs to be used with caution in these groups.
Cholestyramine can affect the absorption of other drugs.
The drug is taken by mouth and works by clearing excess bile acid from the body.
Many cases of chronic diarrhea are due to bile acid malabsorption.
Cholestyramine typically comes in powder form and is taken before meals or bedtime.
Side effects include constipation, gas, and stomach upset.
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