Cholestyramine
Questran is a brand-name bile acid sequestrant used primarily to lower high cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol. It is also prescribed to relieve itching caused by liver disease and to control diarrhea related to bile acid malabsorption.
Questran is a cholesterol-lowering medication that works by binding bile acids in the intestines to help reduce heart disease risk.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202582
- Generic
- Questran
- 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.
Questran is used to treat high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is also prescribed for itching (pruritus) associated with liver disorders such as primary biliary cholangitis, and for diarrhea caused by bile acid malabsorption.
Questran contains cholestyramine, a resin that binds to bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption. This forces the liver to use more cholesterol from the bloodstream to produce new bile acids, thereby lowering LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
Questran should be mixed with fluid before taking to prevent choking. It may reduce absorption of other medications, vitamins, and nutrients, so other drugs should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after Questran. Common side effects include constipation, bloating, and gas. May affect absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
Official drug label
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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