Prevalite

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

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

Prevalite 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 occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

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

Mix the Prevalite powder with at least 2 to 6 ounces of water or other 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 medicine dose.

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

Prevalite can affect the surfaces of your teeth. Sipping the medicine/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 Prevalite.

While using Prevalite, you may need frequent blood tests.

Prevalite 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 Prevalite if you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines.

You should not use Prevalite 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 Prevalite if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

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

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

You may need more vitamin supplements during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Follow your doctor's instructions about taking vitamin supplements during treatment with Prevalite.

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

Prevalite may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away 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 like constipation may happen more often in older adults.

Common side effects of Prevalite 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 happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Take the medicine as soon as you remember, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

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

Overdose symptoms may include severe stomach pain or constipation.

Avoid taking other medications at the same time you take Prevalite. Wait at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking this medicine before you take any other medications.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking. Many drugs can affect Prevalite, 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 listed in this medication guide.