Prevalite (Cholestyramine)

Do’s

• Take Prevalite exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 1-2 times a day.
• Mix the powder with at least 2-6 ounces of liquid (water, milk, fruit juice) and drink immediately. You can also mix it with watery soups, applesauce, or pulpy fruit.
• Rinse the glass and drink the rinse to ensure you consume the entire dose.
• Practice good dental hygiene like brushing and flossing regularly to avoid damaging your teeth from the medication.
• Take Prevalite consistently at the same time(s) each day.
• Continue taking Prevalite even if you feel well, as high cholesterol often has no symptoms.

Don'ts

• Don't take the Prevalite powder in its dry form.
• Don't hold the mixture in your mouth for a long time.
• Don't take Prevalite with other medications within 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after unless directed by your healthcare provider, as it can affect their absorption.

Common side effects:

• Mild constipation
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating or gas
• Irritation of the tongue
• Itching or irritation around the rectal area

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Severe stomach/abdominal pain
• Unusual bleeding/bruising
• Rapid breathing
• Confusion
• Serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing
• Loss of weight (sudden)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Prevalite,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Let your healthcare provider know if you have any allergies to Prevalite or its ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing health conditions, especially constipation, hemorrhoids, or kidney disease.

Prevalite may contain sugar or aspartame. Be cautious if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or need to limit these substances in your diet. Consult your healthcare provider for safe use.

Prevalite can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients like folic acid and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Your healthcare provider might recommend a multivitamin supplement.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including Prevalite) before any surgery.

Older adults may be more sensitive to constipation, a side effect of Prevalite.

Discuss the risks and benefits of Prevalite with your healthcare provider if you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It may affect nutrient absorption.

Prevalite likely doesn't pass into breast milk, but it may affect nutrient absorption in the breastfed baby. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.