Drug Detail:Questran packets (Cholestyramine [ koe-le-stye-ra-meen ])
Generic Name: CHOLESTYRAMINE 4g in 9g
Dosage Form: powder for oral suspension
Drug Class: Bile acid sequestrants
The recommended starting adult dose for all QUESTRAN powdered products (QUESTRAN Powder and QUESTRAN Light) is one packet or one level scoopful once or twice a day. The recommended maintenance dose for all QUESTRAN powdered products is 2 to 4 packets or scoopfuls daily (8-16 grams anhydrous cholestyramine resin) divided into two doses. Four grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin is contained in each measured dose of QUESTRAN as follows:
QUESTRAN Powder |
9 grams |
QUESTRAN Light |
5 grams |
It is recommended that increases in dose be gradual with periodic assessment of lipid/lipoprotein levels at intervals of not less than 4 weeks. The maximum recommended daily dose is six packets or scoopfuls of QUESTRAN (24 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin). The suggested time of administration is at mealtime but may be modified to avoid interference with absorption of other medications. Although the recommended dosing schedule is twice daily, QUESTRAN may be administered in 1–6 doses per day.
QUESTRAN should not be taken in its dry form. Always mix QUESTRAN with water or other fluids before ingesting. See Preparation Instructions.
Concomitant Therapy
Preliminary evidence suggests that the lipid-lowering effects of QUESTRAN on total and LDL-cholesterol are enhanced when combined with a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, e.g., pravastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin, and fluvastatin. Additive effects on LDL-cholesterol are also seen with combined nicotinic acid/QUESTRAN therapy. See the Drug Interactions subsection of the PRECAUTIONS section for recommendations on administering concomitant therapy.
PREPARATION
The color of QUESTRAN may vary somewhat from batch to batch but this variation does not affect the performance of the product. Place the contents of one single-dose packet or one level scoopful of QUESTRAN in a glass or cup. Add an amount of water or other noncarbonated beverage of your choice depending on the product being used:
Product Formula |
Amount of Water or other Non-Carbonated Liquid |
QUESTRAN Powder |
2-6 ounces per dose |
QUESTRAN LIGHT |
2-6 ounces per dose |
Stir to a uniform consistency and drink.
QUESTRAN may also be mixed with highly fluid soups or pulpy fruits with a high moisture content such as applesauce or crushed pineapple.