Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic class of cholestyramine?
What is the pharmacologic class of cholestyramine?
What are the actions and uses of cholestyramine?
Binds with bile acids in an insoluble complex that is excreted in the feces, decreasing cholesterol levels.
Match the following administration alerts with their descriptions:
Signup and view all the answers
What are some common adverse effects of cholestyramine?
Signup and view all the answers
What are contraindications for using cholestyramine?
Signup and view all the answers
Which drugs' absorption is interfered by cholestyramine?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a potential interaction with food while taking cholestyramine?
Signup and view all the answers
What lab tests may show increased levels due to cholestyramine?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the treatment for an overdose of cholestyramine?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Cholestyramine Overview
- Cholestyramine, marketed as Questran, falls under the therapeutic class of antihyperlipidemics, aiming to lower cholesterol levels.
- Its pharmacologic class is bile acid sequestrants, designed to bind bile acids in the intestine.
Actions and Uses
- The drug binds bile acids, which are cholesterol-containing compounds, forming an insoluble complex excreted in feces.
- This process results in decreased cholesterol levels within the body due to the fecal loss of bile acids.
Administration Alerts
- Classified as Pregnancy Category C, indicating risks should be assessed during pregnancy.
- It is crucial to mix cholestyramine thoroughly with liquids such as water or applesauce and consume immediately to prevent gastrointestinal irritation or obstruction.
- Other medications should be administered at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after cholestyramine to avoid interaction.
Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include constipation, bloating, gas, and nausea, which may affect patient comfort.
Contraindications
- Cholestyramine is contraindicated in patients with total biliary obstruction and those with hypersensitivity to the drug.
Drug-Drug Interactions
- The absorption of digoxin, penicillin, thyroid hormone, and thiazide diuretics can be impaired when taken with cholestyramine.
- The drug may enhance the anticoagulant effects of certain medications, necessitating careful monitoring.
Herbal/Food Interactions
- When consumed with food, cholestyramine can interfere with the absorption of various nutrients, including beta-carotene, calcium, folic acid, iron, magnesium, vitamins B12, D, E, K, and zinc.
Lab Tests
- Treatment may lead to increased levels of aspartate aminotransferase, phosphorus, chloride, and alkaline phosphatase.
- There can also be a decrease in serum calcium, sodium, and potassium levels, indicating possible metabolic effects.
Treatment of Overdose
- No specific treatment exists for cholestyramine overdose, emphasizing the importance of adherence to prescribed dosages.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz explores the therapeutic and pharmacologic aspects of Cholestyramine, a drug used to lower cholesterol levels. It covers its actions, administration guidelines, and potential adverse effects. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to enhance their understanding of antihyperlipidemics.
