Name of the drug: Classification:
Cholestyramine Bile Acid Sequestrant
Brand Name:
Prevalite
Generic Name:
Prevalite Mechanism of Action:
Cholestyramine is a large cationic
Dosage: exchange resin polymer. It is
4g (packet) insoluble in water.
4g/dose (231g)
Bile acids, metabolites of
4g/dose (378g) cholesterol, are normally
4g/dose (210g) efficiently reabsorbed in the
jejunum and ileum.
Excretion is increased up to
tenfold when cholestyramine is
given, resulting in the enhanced
conversion of cholesterol to bile
acids in the liver via 7a-
hydroxylation, which is normally
controlled by negative feedback
by bile acids.
Indications Side Effects: Nursing Implications:
Prevalite, powder is indicated as  Constipation  Check doctor’s order to avoid
adjunctive therapy to diet for the  Abdominal Pain mistake.
reduction of elevated serum cholesterol  Gas  Assess vital signs.
in patients with primary  Nausea  Assess client’s history of
hypercholesterolemia, elevated low  Vomiting allergy.
density lipoprotein cholesterol who do  Take drug before meals; do not
not respond adequately to diet. take the powder in the dry
Adverse Effects: form; mix one packet or one
Prevalite, powder may be useful to scoop with 2–6 ounces of fluid
 Constipation
lower LDL cholesterol in patients who —water, milk, juice,
also have hypertriglyceridemia, but it is  Abdominal Discomfort
noncarbonated drinks, highly
not indicated where  Allergic Reactions
fluid soups, cereals, pulpy
hypertriglyceridemia is the abnormality fruits such as applesauce or
of most concern. pineapple.
 Take other medications 1 hour
before or 4–6 hours after
cholestyramine
 Encourage client to report
Contraindications: severe pain.
 Ensures patient’s safety.
Prevalite powder is contraindicated
in patients with complete biliary
obstruction where bile is not secreted
into the intestine and in those
individuals who have shown
hypersensitivity to any of its
components.