Questran is a brand name for cholestyramine, a medication used to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood. Cholestyramine works by binding to bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream. This leads to an increased removal of bile acids from the body, which in turn stimulates the liver to produce more bile acids from cholesterol, thereby reducing the overall cholesterol levels in the blood. On a Canadian online pharmacy like Canada Pharmacy Depot, Questran is available as a powder that is mixed with water and taken orally. It is important to drink plenty of fluid while taking cholestyramine to prevent constipation and other digestive side effects.

Cholestyramine, the active ingredient in Questran, can cause several side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:

Constipation: This is a common side effect of cholestyramine due to its binding to bile acids in the intestine. Drinking plenty of fluid can help prevent this side effect.

Nausea: Some people may experience nausea after taking cholestyramine.

Heartburn: Cholestyramine can sometimes cause heartburn or indigestion.

Bloating and gas: This can be a side effect of cholestyramine, especially if the medication is not taken with enough fluid.

Changes in taste: Some people may experience a change in taste after taking cholestyramine.

Impairment of fat-soluble vitamin absorption: Cholestyramine can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamin A, D, E, and K, so it's important to talk to your healthcare provider about supplementing these vitamins if necessary.

It is important to note that these side effects are not experienced by everyone who takes cholestyramine. If you experience any side effects that are severe or persist, it's important to contact your healthcare provider for advice.

The recommended dose of cholestyramine, the active ingredient in Questran, varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. The dose will typically be based on factors such as the person's age, weight, and medical history.

In general, the starting dose of cholestyramine for adults is 4 grams per day, taken in divided doses with meals. The dose may be increased or decreased based on individual response and cholesterol levels. The maximum recommended dose is typically 30 grams per day.

It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to not exceed the recommended dose without their advice. Cholestyramine should be taken with plenty of water, and it is important to drink at least 8 ounces of water with each dose to prevent constipation and other digestive side effects.

It's also important to note that cholestyramine is not a cure for high cholesterol, and the medication must be taken as directed to be effective. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels and dietary changes may also be recommended.

Cholestyramine can interact with several other medications and may affect the way they work or the way they are absorbed in the body. Some of the most common drugs that interact with cholestyramine include:

Fat-soluble vitamins: Cholestyramine can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamin A, D, E, and K, so it's important to take these vitamins at least four hours before or after taking cholestyramine.

Digoxin: Cholestyramine can decrease the absorption of digoxin, a medication used to treat heart conditions, so it's important to take digoxin at least two hours before or four hours after taking cholestyramine.

Thyroid hormone: Cholestyramine can reduce the absorption of thyroid hormone, so it's important to take thyroid hormone at least four hours before or after taking cholestyramine.

Antibiotics: Some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, can interact with cholestyramine, reducing their effectiveness. It's important to take antibiotics at least two hours before or four hours after taking cholestyramine.

Other cholesterol-lowering medications: Cholestyramine can interact with other cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins, so it's important to talk to your healthcare provider about the potential for drug interactions if you are taking both medications.

What is Questran used for?

Questran is a brand name for cholestyramine, a medication used to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood.

How does Questran work?

Questran works by binding to bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream. This leads to an increased removal of bile acids from the body, which in turn stimulates the liver to produce more bile acids from cholesterol, thereby reducing the overall cholesterol levels in the blood. [1]

What is the recommended dose for Questran?

The recommended dose of Questran varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated, but the starting dose for adults is 4 grams per day, taken in divided doses with meals.

Can Questran cause side effects?

Yes, Questran can cause side effects, such as constipation, nausea, heartburn, bloating and gas, changes in taste, and impaired fat-soluble vitamin absorption.

Can Questran interact with other medications?

Yes, Questran can interact with several other medications, including fat-soluble vitamins, digoxin, thyroid hormone, antibiotics, and other cholesterol-lowering medications.

How should Questran be taken?

Questran should be taken with plenty of water and in divided doses with meals, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Is Questran a cure for high cholesterol?

No, Questran is not a cure for high cholesterol. It must be taken as directed to be effective, and regular monitoring of cholesterol levels and dietary changes may also be recommended.