Precautions
Cholestyramine resin is quite hydrophilic, but insoluble in water. The cholestyramine resin in Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) is not absorbed from the digestive tract. 5.5 grams of Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) contain 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin.
Is prevalite® (cholestyramine) soluble in water?
The recommended starting adult dose for Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder is one packet or one level scoopful (5.5 grams of Prevalite® [cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP] powder contain 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin) once or twice a day.
What is the recommended dose for prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension)?
How is Prevalite Supplied. Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder is available in cartons of forty-two and sixty single-dose packets and in cans containing 231 grams. 5.5 grams of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder contain 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin.
How is prevalite supplied?
Because cholestyramine (Prevalite) works by binding bile acid in the gut, it may also affect how other medications get absorbed. It's recommended that you take your other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking cholestyramine (Prevalite) to avoid any potential absorption issues.
Does cholestyramine (prevalite) interact with other medications?
Is Prevalite the same as questran?
BRAND NAME(S): Prevalite, Questran. USES: Cholestyramine is used along with a proper diet to lower cholesterol in the blood.
What is Prevalite prescribed for?
Cholestyramine (Prevalite) is used to help lower cholesterol. It can also be used to treat itching caused by bile duct blockage. The medication can cause stomach-related side effects, like constipation, gas, and stomach discomfort.
Is there a substitute for cholestyramine?
Bile acid sequestrants include: Cholestyramine (Questran, Questran Light, Prevalite, Cholestyramine Light) Colestipol (Colestid, Colestid Flavored)
What type drug is Prevalite?
This medication is known as a bile acid-binding resin. It works by removing bile acid from the body. In people with high cholesterol, this causes the liver to make more bile acid by using cholesterol in the blood. This helps to lower the cholesterol levels.
What is the best time to take Prevalite?
Prevalite works best if you take it with meals. However, your dosing schedule may depend on when you need to take any other medications. This medicine should not be taken within 1 hour after or 4 hours before you take other medications. Use Prevalite regularly to get the most benefit.
Does cholestyramine make you gain weight?
Miscellaneous: Weight loss, weight gain, increased libido, swollen glands, edema, dental bleeding, dental caries, erosion of tooth enamel, tooth discoloration.
What is the brand name for cholestyramine?
Cholestyramine is available as a generic drug and a brand-name drug. Brand name: Prevalite. This medication comes as a powder that you mix with a non-carbonated drink or applesauce and take by mouth. Cholestyramine is used to treat high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) and itching caused by partial bile obstruction.
How does Prevalite help with diarrhea?
Recap. Cholestyramine is primarily a cholesterol medication that helps those with high LDL levels lower the amount of bad cholesterol in their blood. It also helps to remove excess bile acid from the intestines, which relieves the symptoms of diarrhea associated with BAD.
What happens when you stop taking cholestyramine?
Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. When you stop taking this medicine, your blood cholesterol levels may increase again. Your doctor may want you to follow a special diet to help prevent this from happening.
Can cholestyramine cause liver damage?
There is little evidence that cholestyramine causes significant liver injury. However, mild elevations in serum aminotransferase levels occur in a proportion of patients on cholestyramine. The elevations have been mild, transient and without accompanying symptoms or jaundice.
Does Prevalite make you tired?
Neurologic: Headache, anxiety, vertigo, dizziness, fatigue, tinnitus, syncope, drowsiness, femoral nerve pain, paresthesia. Eye: Uveitis. Renal: Hematuria, dysuria, burnt odor to urine, diuresis.
When should you take cholestyramine (Prevalite)?
You should take this medication at mealtime. Make sure you also space out your other medications by at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after yo...
What happens when you stop taking cholestyramine (Prevalite)?
You shouldn't stop taking this medication unless told to stop by a healthcare provider. If you stop taking this medication suddenly, your blood cho...
How much cholestyramine (Prevalite) should I take?
Closely follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Generally, cholestyramine (Prevalite) is taken once or twice per day. Mix the powder...
Why does cholestyramine (Prevalite) cause constipation?
Constipation is a very common side effect of cholestyramine (Prevalite) because of the way the medication works. Normally, bile acids in the intest...
Is there a pill form of cholestyramine (Prevalite)?
Cholestyramine (Prevalite) is currently only available as a powder form. There are other bile acid type medications, such as colestipol (Colestid)...
Before Taking This Medicine
You should not use Prevalite if you are allergic to it, or if you have: 1. a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines).To make sure...
How Should I Take Prevalite?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amou...
What Happens If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to...
What Happens If I Overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.Overdose symptoms may include severe stomach pain or constipation.
What Should I Avoid While Taking Prevalite?
Avoid taking other medications at the same time you take Prevalite. Wait at least 4 to 6 hours after taking this medicine before you take any other...
What Other Drugs Will Affect Prevalite?
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially: 1. birth control pills or hormone replacement therap...
How to mix Prevalite?
Mix the Prevalite powder with at least 2 to 3 ounces of water or other non-carbonated beverage. You may also mix the powder with a brothy soup, crushed pineapple, or applesauce. Measure the powder using the scoop provided with your medication.
What is prevalite used for?
Prevalite is used to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ("bad" cholesterol). Prevalite powder is also used to treat itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder. Prevalite may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How to prevent constipation while taking Prevalite?
Drink extra fluids to prevent constipation while you are taking Prevalite. While using Prevalite, you may need frequent blood tests. Prevalite is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Does warfarin interact with cholestyramine?
warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven ). This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with cholestyramine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Can you take Prevalite if you are allergic to it?
You should not use Prevalite if you are allergic to it, or if you have: a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines). To make sure Prevalite is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: chronic constipation; a thyroid disorder; diabetes; kidney disease; liver disease; or.
Can Prevalite cause hives?
Prevalite side effects. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have: ongoing or worsening constipation; severe stomach pain; blood in your urine; black, bloody, or tarry stools; or.
Can you take Prevalite with phenylalanine?
coronary artery disease (clogged arteries). This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using Prevalite if you have phenylketonuria (PKU). Taking Prevalite can make it harder for your body to absorb certain vitamins. Your doctor may recommend you take a vitamin supplement.
How much cholestyramine is in Prevalite?
The cholestyramine resin in Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) is not absorbed from the digestive tract. 5.5 grams of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) contain 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin. It is represented by the following structural formula:
What is prevalite powder?
1) Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of elevated serum cholesterol in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated low density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol) who do not respond adequately to diet.
What is the purpose of cholestyramine resin?
Cholestyramine resin adsorbs and combines with the bile acids in the intestine to form an insoluble complex which is excreted in the feces. This results in a partial removal of bile acids from the enterohepatic circulation by preventing their absor ption.
How many packets of Prevalite are there?
The maximum recommended daily dose is six packets or scoopfuls of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder (24 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin). The suggested time of administration is at mealtime but may be modified to avoid interference with absorption of other medications.
What are the most common adverse reactions to a cholesterol lowering medication?
The most common adverse reaction is constipation. When used as a cholesterol-lowering agent, predisposing factors for most complaints of constipation are high dose and increased age (more than 60 years old). Most instances of constipation are mild, transient and controlled with conventional therapy.
Does cholestyramine cause bile loss?
The increased fecal loss of bile acids due to cholestyramine resin administration leads to an increased oxidation of cholesterol to bile acids, a decrease in beta lipoprotein or low density lipoprotein plasma levels and a decrease in serum cholesterol levels.
Is prevalite a chloride salt?
Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder, the chloride salt of a basic anion exchange resin, a cholesterol-lowering agent, is intended for oral administration. Cholestyramine resin is quite hydrophilic, but insoluble in water. The cholestyramine resin in Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, ...
How much cholestyramine is in Prevalite?
The cholestyramine resin in Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) is not absorbed from the digestive tract. 5.5 grams of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) contain 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin. It is represented by the following structural formula:
What is prevalite powder?
Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder, the chloride salt of a basic anion exchange resin, a cholesterol-lowering agent, is intended for oral administration.
How many packets of Prevalite are there?
The maximum recommended daily dose is six packets or scoopfuls of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder (24 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin). The suggested time of administration is at mealtime but may be modified to avoid interference with absorption of other medications.
How much prevalite is in a packet?
The recommended starting adult dose for Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder is one packet or one level scoopful (5.5 grams of Prevalite® [cholestyramine for oral ...
Does Prevalite help with hypertriglyceridemia?
Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder may be useful to lower LDL cholesterol in patients who also have hypertriglyceridemia, but it is not indicated where hypertriglyceridemia is the abnormality of most concern.
Does prevalite affect performance?
The color of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder may vary somewhat from batch to batch but this variation does not affect the performance of the product. Place the contents of one single-dose packet or one level scoopful of Prevalite ® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder in a glass or cup.
Does cholestyramine cause bile loss?
The increased fecal loss of bile acids due to cholestyramine resin administration leads to an increased oxidation of cholesterol to bile acids, a decrease in beta lipoprotein or low density lipoprotein plasma levels and a decrease in serum cholesterol levels.
How much cholestyramine is in Prevalite?
The cholestyramine resin in Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) is not absorbed from the digestive tract. 5.5 grams of Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) contain 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin. It is represented by the following structural formula:
What is prevalite powder?
Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of elevated serum cholesterol in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated low density lipoprotein [ LDL] cholesterol) who do not respond adequately to diet. Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, ...
What is the purpose of cholestyramine resin?
Cholestyramine resin adsorbs and combines with the bile acids in the intestine to form an insoluble complex which is excreted in the feces. This results in a partial removal of bile acids from the enterohepatic circulation by preventing their absor ption.
How many packets of Prevalite are there?
The maximum recommended daily dose is six packets or scoopfuls of Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder (24 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin). The suggested time of administration is at mealtime but may be modified to avoid interference with absorption of other medications. Although the recommended dosing schedule is ...
Does cholestyramine resin affect phenylbutazone?
DRUG INTERACTIONS. Cholestyramine resin may delay or reduce the ab sorption of concomitant oral medication such as phen ylbutazone, warfarin, thiazide diuretics (acidic) or propranolol (basic), as well as tetracycline, penicillin G, phenobarbital, thyroid and thyroxine preparations, estrogens and progestins and digitalis.
Is cholestyramine resin a manifestation of liver disease?
However, this may be a manifestation of the liver disease and not drug related.
Is prevalite a chloride salt?
Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder, the chloride salt of a basic anion exchange resin, a cholesterol -lowering agent, is intended for oral administration. Cholestyramine resin is quite hydrophilic, but insoluble in water. The cholestyramine resin in Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, ...
Why is cholestyramine used in primary biliary cirrhosis?
Cholestyramine should also be used cautiously in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis because it can further raise serum cholesterol.
How long after cholestyramine can you take methylfolate?
Cholestyramine administration may decrease L-methylfolate plasma concentrations. Patients taking both drugs should take L-methylfolate 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after a dose of cholestyramine. Lomitapide: (Moderate) Separate administration of lomitapide and bile acid sequestrants by at least 4 hours.
How long after cholestyramine is raloxifene administered?
To minimize drug interactions, administer other drugs at least 1 hour before or at least 4 to 6 hours after the administration of cholestyramine. Raloxifene: (Moderate) A single dose of cholestyramine causes a 60% reduction in the absorption and enterohepatic cycling of raloxifene.
Is cholestyramine absorbed by breast milk?
Cholestyramine is not systemically absorbed. It has no specific precautions for use in breast-feeding women. However, prolonged use of cholestyramine may result in decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) in the mother and could potentially reduce vitamin concentrations in maternal milk.
Can cholestyramine cause renal failure?
Prolonged therapy with cholestyramine should be used with caution in patients with renal disease or renal failure because the cholestyramine resin releases chloride, which can increase the risk of developing hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis.
Can cholestyramine cause GI obstruction?
Constipation, dysphagia, GI obstruction, hemorrhoids, ileus. Cholestyramine should be avoided in patients with GI obstruction because the drug causes constipation. Patients with preexisting constipation are at increased risk of developing fecal impaction.
Can cholestyramine be used for pruritus?
In general, cholestyramine should only be used for symptomatic relief of pruritus secondary to cho lestasis in pregnancy ; dyslipidemias should be controlled with diet. Monitor the patient's INR and supplement with vitamin K, if needed. In addition, other fat-soluble vitamins may need to be supplemented.
How to stop constipation while taking cholestyramine?
Drink extra fluids to prevent constipation while you are taking cholestyramine. While using cholestyramine, you may need frequent blood tests. Cholestyramine is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control.
What is the purpose of cholestyramine powder?
Cholestyramine powder is also used to treat itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder.
What are the side effects of cholestyramine?
Cholestyramine side effects. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have: ongoing or worsening constipation; severe stomach pain; blood in your urine; black, bloody, or tarry stools; or.
Can you take cholestyramine if you are allergic to it?
Before taking this medicine. You should not use cholestyramine if you are allergic to it, or if you have: a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines). To make sure cholestyramine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: chronic constipation; a thyroid disorder; diabetes; kidney disease;
Can cholestyramine cause tooth decay?
Cholestyramine can affect the surfaces of your teeth. Sipping the cholestyramine/li quid mixture slowly or holding the liquid in your mouth for too long may result in tooth discoloration, enamel erosion, or tooth decay. Be sure to brush your teeth regularly while you are using this medicine.
Does warfarin interact with cholestyramine?
warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven ). This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with cholestyramine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Can you take vitamin supplements while pregnant?
You may have an even greater need for vitamin supplements during pregnancy or while you are breast-feeding a baby. Follow your doctor's instructions about taking vitamin supplements during treatment with cholestyramine. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby.
What are the side effects of taking cholestyramine?
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking cholestyramine: More common. Constipation. Rare. Loss of weight (sudden)
Does cholestyramine need immediate medical attention?
Side effects not requiring immediate medical attention. Some side effects of cholestyramine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine.
Does cholestyramine cause tarry stool?
Along with its needed effects, cholestyramine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking cholestyramine: Rare. Black, tarry stools.
Prevalite Description
Cholestyramine is used along with a proper diet to lower cholesterol in the blood.
May Treat: Biliary obstruction with pruritus · Hypercholesterolemia
Alternate Brand Names: Questran
Drug Class: Antihyperlipidemic - Bile Acid Sequestrants
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor
May Treat: Biliary obstruction with pruritus · Hypercholesterolemia
Alternate Brand Names: Questran
Drug Class: Antihyperlipidemic - Bile Acid Sequestrants
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor
Lactation: Does not adversely affect lactation
Alcohol: Limit intake while taking this medication
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
Prevalite - Clinical Pharmacology
Clinical Studies
Indications and Usage For Prevalite
Contraindications
Precautions
- Cholesterol is probably the sole precursor of bile acids. During normal digestion, bile acids are secreted into the intestines. A major portion of the bile acids is absorbed from the intestinal tract and returned to the liver via the enterohepatic circulation. Only very small amounts of bile acids are found in normal serum. Cholestyramine resin adsorbs and combines with the bile acids in th…
Adverse Reactions
- In a large, placebo-controlled, multi-clinic study, LRC-CPPT1, hypercholesterolemic subjects treated with cholestyramine resin had mean reduction in total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) which exceeded those for diet and placebo treatment by 7.2% and 10.4%, respectively. Over the seven-year study period the cholestyramine resin group experienced a 19…
Overdosage
- 1) Prevalite® (cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of elevated serum cholesterol in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated low density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol) who do not respond adequately to diet. Prevalite®(cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder may be useful t…
Prevalite Dosage and Administration
- Prevalite®powder is contraindicated in patients with complete biliary obstruction where bile is not secreted into the intestine and in those individuals who have shown hypersensitivity to any of its components.
How Is Prevalite Supplied
- General
Chronic use of cholestyramine resin may be associated with increased bleeding tendency due to hypoprothrombinemia associated with Vitamin K deficiency. This will usually respond promptly to parenteral Vitamin K1 and recurrences can be prevented by oral administration of Vitamin K1. R… - Information for Patients
Inform your physician if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding. Drink plenty of fluids and mix each 5.5 gram dose of Prevalite®(cholestyramine for oral suspension, USP) powder in at least 2 to 3 ounces of fluid before taking. Sipping or holding the resin suspens…