Cholestyramine Resin

Olestar is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet and exercise for the reduction of elevated serum cholesterol in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated low-density lipoproteins). Such reduction of serum cholesterol may reduce the risks of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease
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Olestar is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet and exercise for the reduction of elevated serum cholesterol in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated low-density lipoproteins). Such reduction of serum cholesterol may reduce the risks of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction. Olestar may be useful in lowering elevated cholesterol in patients with combined hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia but it is not indicated where hypertriglyceridemia is the abnormality of most concern. Olestar is indicated as a symptomatic control of bile acid-induced diarrhea due to short bowel syndrome. Olestar is indicated for the relief of pruritus associated with partial biliary obstruction.

Dosage & Administration

To familiarize the patient with Cholestyramine Resin Light Powder and to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, it is desirable to begin all therapy with one dose daily. Dosage is then increased within a day or two to the desired level for effective control. Motivation of the patient to continue the prescribed regimen in spite of gastrointestinal problems is important. Physician encouragement and supervision are essential for successful management. The recommended adult dose is 4 grams of cholestyramine resin, one to six times daily. Dosages may be adjusted as required to meet the patient's needs. A pediatric dosage schedule has not been established.

The most frequent adverse effect of Olestar is constipation. When used as a cholesterol lowering agent predisposing factors for most complaints of constipation are high dose and increased age (more than 60 years old). Most instances of constipation are mild, transient, and controlled with conventional therapy. Some patients require a temporary decrease in dosage or discontinuation of therapy. Less frequent adverse reactions: Abdominal discomfort, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, anorexia, dyspepsia and steatorrhea, bleeding tendencies due to hypoprothrombinemia (Vitamin K deficiency) as well as Vitamin A (night blindness has been reported rarely) and D deficiencies, hyperchloremic acidosis in children, osteoporosis, rash and irritation of the skin, tongue and perinatal area.