Cholestyramine (cholestyramine) is primarily used to reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood, but also to ease the severe itching associated with certain liver problems and, in cases of overdose, to encourage rapid elimination of certain other medications.

How It Works

Cholesterol is utilized by the liver to produce bile. The bile is then excreted into the intestine, where it aids in digestion. When its job is done, much of the bile is reabsorbed into the bloodstream, where it eventually finds its way back to the liver, to be excreted into the intestine once more. When existing bile levels are high, the liver fails to extract cholesterol from the blood to produce new bile.

Certain liver problems prevent the liver from reabsorbing bile acids correctly, so an excess of bile acids build up in the body, causing severe itching.

The mechanism by which cholestyramine works is similar for all the conditions it treats; cholestyramine attaches itself to bile encountered in the intestine, preventing reabsorption into the bloodstream; bile is excreted as waste instead. The liver, denied its recycled bile, is forced to utilize more cholesterol from the bloodstream, thus lowering cholesterol levels in the blood; or, in the case of excess bile acids, aiding in elimination so levels are returned to normal.

Before you Buy Cholestyramine

There are some situations in which cholestyramine may not be the ideal treatment:

• Cholestyramine inhibits absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K in the intestine. Patients already suffering a deficiency, or are pregnant or nursing, should speak with a doctor about alternative treatments rather than buy cholestyramine.
• Certain thyroid treatments may not function as well while taking cholestyramine. Usually problems can be avoided by taking the different medications several hours apart, but effectiveness should be monitored closely initially to be certain.
• There is an increased risk of gallstone formation; patients with a history of gallstones should use with caution. 
• This product may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control pills.

Side effects are very mild, with the most common by far being constipation. Adding fiber to the diet will usually compensate, though in some case laxatives may be required. Elderly patients are particularly prone to experiencing constipation with cholestyramine use.

Dosage & Administration

Cholestyramine usually comes as a powder, which should be mixed, immediately prior to consumption, with water, juice, soup, applesauce, or any similar food with a high water content. Fluids and foods may be hot or cold.

The usual dose ranges between 4 to 24 grams, taken from 1 to 6 times daily per doctor instructions. Dosage strength is largely dependent on severity of the condition as well as the patient's weight. Never exceed 24 grams in a single day.

Brushing teeth after each dose will help prevent tooth discoloration sometimes associated with cholestyramine use.

Regular doctor visits for the duration of treatment are important, to monitor the medication's effectiveness as well as to make sure it's not causing other problems, such as vitamin deficiencies.

Buy cholestyramine without Leaving Home

A prescription is required to buy cholestyramine. If you don't have one, our online doctor may be able to issue a prescription, at no extra charge, depending on your medical history. Simply fill out the questionnaire during the check-out process to see if you qualify. 

Buy cholestyramine from Kiwi Drug and find out why we're New Zealand's most-trusted online pharmacy. Orders are processed and shipped promptly and discreetly, and we will never share your personal information with anyone for any reason. 

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