Cholestyramine Resin
Cholestyramine Resin is a bile acid sequestrant medication that lowers LDL cholesterol by binding to bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption and forcing the liver to use circulating cholesterol to produce new bile acids. It is primarily prescribed for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and may also be used for itching associated with liver disease or bile acid diarrhea.
A cholesterol-lowering medication that works by binding bile acids in the intestine to reduce LDL levels.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C10AC01
- RxNorm
- 2447
- Generic
- Cholestyramine Resin
- Class
- atc-c10
- Brands
- Questran, Prevalite
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats primary hypercholesterolemia (high LDL cholesterol), pruritus associated with cholestasis or primary biliary cholangitis, and bile acid malabsorption causing diarrhea. Often used as adjunctive therapy when statins alone are insufficient.
As a bile acid sequestrant, cholestyramine binds bile acids in the intestinal lumen to form an insoluble complex that is excreted in feces. This interrupts the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids, forcing the liver to increase conversion of cholesterol to bile acids, thereby reducing circulating LDL cholesterol.
Must be taken with fluids and meals. Other oral medications should be taken 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after to avoid absorption interference. Common GI side effects include constipation, bloating, and gas. May elevate triglycerides; monitor lipid panels periodically. Adequate hydration is essential.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy