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 cholestyramine powder used for diarrhea?

Cholestyramine powder is usually administered at a starting dose of 4 g/day, increased as needed to 4 g one to six times/day; in clinical practice, less frequent dosing (eg, 4 g twice/day) is often effective in relieving BAM-associated diarrhea.

When should you 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.

What are the side effects of Prevalite powder?

Constipation, stomach/abdominal pain, gas, nausea, and vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To prevent constipation, eat dietary fiber, drink enough water, and exercise. You may also need to take a laxative.

How do you mix cholestyramine powder?

Instead, always mix as follows: Place the medicine in 2 ounces of any beverage and mix thoroughly. Then add an additional 2 to 4 ounces of beverage and again mix thoroughly (it will not dissolve) before drinking.

What does cholestyramine powder do?

Cholestyramine is used to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood. This may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol clogging the blood vessels. Cholestyramine is also used to remove substances called bile acids from your body.

How does Prevalite help with diarrhea?

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.

Is Prevalite the same as 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.

What is the best medicine for chronic diarrhea?

Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications, such as loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate, might help reduce the number of watery bowel movements and control severe symptoms.

Does Prevalite cause hair loss?

Dear N.C.: Hair loss is not listed on the literature for this medication, but yes, the drug can indirectly cause hair loss by wiping out the body’s natural nutrients.

Can I take cholestyramine at night?

Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Take this medication before a meal and/or at bedtime, and try to take any other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after you take cholestyramine because cholestyramine can interfere with their absorption.

Is Prevalite prescription?

Prevalite is a prescription drug used to reduce high cholesterol levels, particularly “bad” cholesterol. Prevalite therapy is meant to include significant dietary changes, as well.

Does Prevalite make you gain weight?

Miscellaneous: Weight loss, weight gain, increased libido, swollen glands, edema, dental bleeding, dental caries, erosion of tooth enamel, tooth discoloration.

Can I buy cholestyramine over the counter?

Cholestyramine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

How much water should I drink with cholestyramine?

Although cholestyramine is usually taken once or twice per day, this medicine may be taken up to 6 times per day. Carefully follow your doctor’s dosing instructions. Mix the cholestyramine powder with at least 2 to 3 ounces of water or other non-carbonated beverage.

Will 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.

How long after cholestyramine can I eat?

What is the most important information I should know about cholestyramine? You should not use this medicine if you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines. Wait at least 4 to 6 hours after taking cholestyramine before you take any other medications.