Questra (cholestyramine) 4gm sachets

What is Questra (Cholestyramine) 4g?

Questra 4g contains Cholestyramine, a well-established prescription medication used to help lower high cholesterol and relieve itching caused by bile duct blockage. It belongs to a class of medicines called bile acid sequestrants — drugs that work inside your gut to pull cholesterol out of your body before it enters your bloodstream.

If your doctor has told you that your LDL ("bad") cholesterol is too high, or if you suffer from itching linked to a liver or gallbladder condition, Questra may be part of your treatment plan.

What is Questra Used For?

• High Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolaemia) — Cholestyramine is used to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol. 
• Bile Duct Itching — Cholestyramine is also used to treat itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder. 
• It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. 

How to Take Questra 4g

• The recommended starting adult dose is one packet or one level scoopful once or twice a day. The recommended maintenance dose is 2 to 4 packets daily, divided into two doses. 
• Never swallow the dry powder. Mix it with 2 to 6 ounces of water or another drink, or mix it with foods like soup, applesauce, or crushed pineapple. 
• Don't sip or hold this medication in your mouth for a long time, as this can damage your teeth or change their colour. 
• Take other medications at least 1 hour before or 4–6 hours after taking Cholestyramine to avoid interference with their absorption. 
• Increases in dose should be gradual, with periodic assessment of lipid levels at intervals of not less than 4 weeks. 
• Always follow your doctor's prescribed dosage.

Common Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effect is constipation. Increased fluid intake and fibre intake should be encouraged to help with this, and a stool softener may occasionally be needed. Other side effects may include bloating, nausea, and stomach discomfort. 

Seek medical attention if you notice: unusual bleeding or bruising, signs of vitamin deficiency (fatigue, weakness), or an allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing, hives).

Important Warnings

• With prolonged use, there is an increased risk of bleeding due to Vitamin K deficiency, and it may interfere with fat absorption and decrease absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. 
• Questra should not be used as the sole treatment for high triglycerides, and is not suitable if your fasting triglyceride levels are 300 mg/dL or above. 
• Use with caution during pregnancy as there is potential for vitamin loss in the mother; consult your doctor first. 
• Elderly patients over 60 may be more sensitive to side effects — discuss with your doctor before use.

Prescription Required

Questra 4g is a prescription-only medicine. Please upload a valid prescription or consult your doctor before purchasing. Our licensed pharmacists are on hand to help with any questions.