Cholestyramine Light

Cholestyramine Light is used to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ("bad" cholesterol).

Cholestyramine Light is also used to relieve itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder.

Cholestyramine Light may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may sometimes change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Although Cholestyramine Light is usually taken once or twice per day, Cholestyramine Light may be taken up to 6 times per day. Carefully follow your doctor's dosing instructions.

Mix the Cholestyramine Light powder with at least 2 to 6 ounces of water or another non-carbonated beverage. You may also mix the powder with a brothy soup, crushed pineapple, or applesauce. Measure the powder using the scoop provided with your medication. Do not use any other scoop or measuring cup to measure your Cholestyramine Light dose.

Use Cholestyramine Light regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Cholestyramine Light can affect the surfaces of your teeth. Sipping the Cholestyramine Light/liquid mixture slowly or holding the liquid in your mouth for too long may result in tooth discoloration, enamel erosion, or tooth decay. Be sure to brush your teeth regularly while you are using this medicine.

Drink extra fluids to prevent constipation while you are taking Cholestyramine Light.

While using Cholestyramine Light, you may need frequent blood tests.

Cholestyramine Light is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

You should not use Cholestyramine Light if you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines.

You should not use Cholestyramine Light if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a blockage in your biliary tract.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• chronic constipation;
• a thyroid disorder;
• diabetes;
• kidney disease;
• liver disease; or
• coronary artery disease (clogged arteries).

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using Cholestyramine Light if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Taking Cholestyramine Light can make it harder for your body to absorb certain vitamins. Your doctor may recommend you take a vitamin supplement.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

You may have an even greater need for vitamin supplements during pregnancy or while you are breastfeeding a baby. Follow your doctor's instructions about taking vitamin supplements during treatment with Cholestyramine Light.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Cholestyramine Light may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• ongoing or worsening constipation;
• severe stomach pain;
• blood in your urine;
• black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
• easy bruising, unusual bleeding.

Side effects such as constipation may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effects of Cholestyramine Light may include:

• mild constipation, diarrhea;
• stomach pain, nausea, loss of appetite;
• bloating or gas;
• irritation of your tongue; or
• itching or irritation around your rectal area.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Take the medicine as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Signs of overdose may include severe stomach pain or constipation.

Do not take other medications at the same time you take Cholestyramine Light. Wait at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking Cholestyramine Light before taking any other medications.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking. Many drugs can affect Cholestyramine Light, especially:

• birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy;
• digoxin (digitalis);
• a diuretic or "water pill";
• penicillin G;
• phenobarbital;
• phenylbutazone;
• propranolol;
• spironolactone;
• tetracycline;
• thyroid medication such as levothyroxine; or
• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with cholestyramine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are included in this medication guide.