Cholestyramine
Prevalite is a brand-name bile acid sequestrant medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by binding to bile acids in the intestines, preventing their reabsorption and forcing the liver to use cholesterol to produce more bile acids, thereby reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. This medication is typically prescribed along with diet and exercise for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia.
Prevalite is a cholesterol-lowering medication that works by binding bile acids in the intestines to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 219397
- Generic
- Prevalite
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Prevalite is used to lower elevated cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol, in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia. It is often prescribed when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control cholesterol levels.
Prevalite contains cholestyramine, a bile acid sequestrant that binds to bile acids in the intestine, forming a complex that is excreted in the stool. This prevents the normal reabsorption of bile acids, forcing the liver to increase conversion of cholesterol to bile acids, thereby reducing circulating cholesterol levels.
Prevalite may interact with other medications by reducing their absorption, so it should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after other drugs. Common side effects may include constipation, abdominal discomfort, and bloating. Adequate fluid intake is essential when taking this medication. This drug is not typically used in patients with complete biliary obstruction.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy