Cholestyramine/Questran

[Lauren]

Cholestyramine(Questran) and Colestid granules

These are adsorbing agents to which CD toxins attach so as not to cause diarrhea and cramping. They do not eradicate CD but can reduce the effects of the toxins. The powders can be difficult to mix with fluids and may cause nausea. Helpful clinically to many, and also lowers cholesterol as a beneficial ‘side effect’.

Mix cholestyramine well with something like orange juice, and it will be easier to get down.

[Lauren]

Cholestyramine resin (Questran) has been used as an adjunct to treatment because it binds toxins A and B, similar to the way it binds cholesterol.1,7,16 It's been used with moderate success in chronic cases. Because cholestyramine also binds with vancomycin, the two drugs should be given at least an hour apart.