Questran Powder (Cholestyramine) is known as a bile acid-binding resin. This medication is used to lower cholesterol in the blood especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. By lowering cholesterol, you will help decrease the risk for strokes and heart attacks. This medication will work better if you make some lifestyle changes and engage in physical activity, decrease weight if overweight, quit smoking and consume low cholesterol/low fat diets. Questran powder is also used to treat itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder. Cholestyramine works by removing bile acid from the body. In people with high cholesterol, it causes the liver to make more bile acid by using cholesterol in the blood which helps lower the cholesterol levels.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the generic Questran Powder (Orange flavour) from Canada in the strength of 4 grams/30 sachets per pack. The brand Questran powder is not available at this time.
Common side effects of Questran Powder may include bloating or gas; diarrhea or mild constipation; itching or irritation around your rectal area; nausea, loss of appetite, stomach pain; tongue irritation. To prevent constipation, eat dietary fiber, drink water, and exercise.
Call your doctor immediately if you notice severe side effects such as:
• Blood in your urine, black, bloody, or tarry stools;
• Ongoing or worsening constipation;
• Severe stomach/ abdominal pain;
• Serious allergic reactions such as rashes, itching, swelling of the face, throat, tongue;
• Unusual bleeding or easy bruising
Before taking Questran Powder (Cholestyramine) tell your doctor if you are allergic to Cholestyramine or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist regarding your medical history, especially of constipation, kidney disease, and hemorrhoids, diabetes, liver disease, a thyroid disorder, or coronary artery disease. You should also avoid using this medication if you have a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines). Questran Powder may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this medication if you have phenylketonuria. Avoid taking any other medications at the same time as you take Questran Powder. Wait at least 4 to 6 hours after taking this medication before consuming any other medications. During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when advised as it may affect the absorption of certain other nutrients. This medication is unlikely to pass into breast milk, but it may affect the absorption of certain nutrients. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Limit alcoholic beverages. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, over the counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. There may be a drug interaction Cholestyramine and other medications such as birth control pills, diuretics, thyroid medications, digoxin, tetracycline, warfarin, etc.
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