CHOLESTYRAMINE - (koh LES tri a meen)

Cholestyramine, a bile acid sequestrant / anion-exchange resin, is used in lowering blood cholesterol levels.

Take exactly as prescribed by your health care professional.

Contact your paediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children.

If you notice any of the symptoms listed below or any other symptoms which seem severe/persistent contact your doctor immediately.

vomiting
unusual bruising/bleeding
stomach pain
shortness of breath
severe/persistent nausea
severe constipation
severe allergic reactions
irritation of the skin, tongue, or anal area
constipation
black/bloody stools

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to the formulation of this medication or any other medication in any other form.

thyroid hormones
thiazide diuretics
tetracyclines
spironolactone
progestins
phosphate supplements
phenylbutazone
phenobarbital
penicillins
mycophenolate
hormonal contraceptives
estrogens
digoxin
beta-blockers
anticoagulants

Inform your doctor about any other medication you may be taking in any other form.

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Inform your doctor if you have or have ever had :

heart disease
constipation
haemorrhoids
gallbladder problems
kidney problems/phenylketonuria
blood/bleeding/clotting problems
high blood levels of triglycerides
poor absorption from the intestinal tract or other intestinal problems

Some of these products contain phenylalanine. If you must have a diet that is low in phenylalanine, ask your pharmacist if it is in your product.

Hormonal birth control may not work as well while you are using cholestyramine.

Lab tests, including lipid and cholesterol levels and prothrombin times, may be performed while you use cholestyramine.

Do not double doses to make up for a missed dose. Consult your health care professional about your missed dose.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Store away from heat and direct light.

If you conceive whilst on a course with this medication inform your doctor immediately.

If you need to undergo any kind of surgery, inform your doctor you are taking this medicine.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breast feeding or planning to conceive.

If you experience dehydration, inform your health care professional, immediately. Do not treat yourself.