Questran

The active ingredient in Questran is cholestyramine. Cholestyramine belongs to a class of medications known as bile acid sequestrants. When we eat foods with cholesterol, our body breaks it down into smaller components known as bile acids. However, if we consume too much cholesterol, there will be too much bile acid produced by our body, so rather than breaking it down, it will start to store it. If this continues, cholesterol levels can build up to the point that the deposits act as a blockage in our arteries, limiting blood flow to the heart and other organs. Cholestyramine helps to get rid of excess bile acid by binding it for removal. As bile acid levels start to decrease, the body starts to break down cholesterol to replenish these levels, helping to lower overall cholesterol levels.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Questran. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Questran:

• Questran should be used exactly as prescribed. It is typically taken once or twice a day.
• To use, dissolve one scoop or one packet in a glass of water or a non-carbonated beverage of your choice. This can be milk, pulpy fruit juices such as orange juice, or other liquids. Stir until a uniform consistency is achieved, then drink. Do not take Questran in its dry form. It must be dissolved in a liquid before drinking.
• Practice good oral hygiene while using Questran. Holding the cholestyramine resin suspension in the mouth for prolonged periods can lead to visible changes in the appearance of your teeth, such as discoloration or tooth decay.
• If using Questran Light, check with your healthcare provider if it is right for you. This formulation contains phenylalanine, which may be unsafe in those with a history of phenylketonuria.
• Your doctor will order the appropriate blood tests to make sure your cholesterol and lipid levels are decreasing. Depending on your response, your doctor may choose to change your dose.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Questran include:

-Constipation

• Stomach pain or abdominal discomfort
• Flatulence
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Anorexia (loss of appetite)
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Questran. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Increased or unexplained bleeding
• Signs of gallbladder problems or gallstones, such as upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, and pruritus (itchy skin)
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, rash, or swelling of the face, tongue, or eyes

These are not all of the possible side effects of Questran. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Questran, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Vitamin K deficiency
• Kidney problems
• Liver disease
• Severe constipation
• Bowel obstruction
• Hypothyroidism
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Do not use Questran if you have:

• A complete biliary obstruction
• An allergy to cholestyramine or any of the other ingredients in Questran

It may take several weeks of regular use to see the full benefits of Questran.

When Questran is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Phenylbutazone
• Warfarin
• Thiazide diuretics
• Spironolactone
• Propranolol
• Tetracycline
• Penicillin G
• Phenobarbital
• Thyroid and thyroxine preparations like levothyroxine
• Medications with estrogens and progestins
• Digoxin or digitalis
• Phosphate supplements
• Fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K

Questran is available as a yellow-colored orange orange-flavored powder for oral suspension in cans of 378 g or in cartons of sixty 9 g packets. Each 9 g of Questran powder contains 4 g of the active ingredient cholestyramine.

Questran is also available under other brand names such as Prevalite and Questran Light.

Questran should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Questran is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Endo USA.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Questran.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Questran.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.