Drug Classes: Bile Acid Sequestrants

Used to treat: Primary hypercholesterolemia, complications of elevated bile acid levels

Mechanism of Action: Bind bile salts in GI tract, resulting in decrased bile acid clearance

Contraindications: Complete biliary obstruction, children (increased risk of intestinale blockage, possibly deadly)


Pregnancy Category:

• (cholestyramine) C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks
• (colesevelam) B - Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.

Common Medications (Brand -- Generic)

• Questran, Questran Light - Cholestyramine
• Powder for Suspension: 4gm/pack or scoop
• Welchol - Colesevelam
• Tablets: 625mg
• Colestid - Colestipol
• Granules for Suspension: 5gm/pack or scoop
• Tablets: 1gm

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal Discomfort
• Constipation
• Nausea

Rare, but Potentially Deadly Side Effects

• Intestinal Blockage (increased risk in children)

Combination Drugs Containing: None
Miscellaneous:

• usually begin in coles- or choles-
• Generally not absorbed into body, primary site of action is within GI tract
• May decrease the absorption of many orally administered medications