Colestyramine
Colestyramine
Colestyramine (pronounced koh-leh-sty-rah-meen) is a type of medication used primarily to treat hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) and pruritus (itching). It is also known as cholestyramine or Questran, the latter being a common brand name.
Etymology
The term "Colestyramine" is derived from the Greek words 'chole' meaning bile, 'stereos' meaning solid, and 'amine' a type of organic compound. This reflects the drug's function as a bile acid sequestrant.
Usage
Colestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant that works by binding to bile acids in the intestines and preventing them from being reabsorbed into the body. This helps to lower the amount of cholesterol in the blood and reduce itching caused by certain liver diseases.
Related Terms
- Hypercholesterolemia: A condition characterized by very high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
- Pruritus: An uncomfortable sensation that causes the desire or reflex to scratch.
- Bile acid sequestrant: A class of drugs that bind to bile acids in the intestines and prevent them from being reabsorbed into the body.
- Questran: A brand name for colestyramine.
Side Effects
Like all medications, colestyramine can cause side effects. These may include constipation, bloating, nausea, and stomach pain. If these side effects persist or worsen, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
Precautions
Before taking colestyramine, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies, medical history, or current medications. This drug may interact with other medications, affecting how they work or increasing the risk of serious side effects.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Colestyramine
- Wikipedia's article - Colestyramine
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