Cholestyramine

[Julie182]

Hello.

Has anyone experienced any side effects with Cholestyramine? Been told its a 14 month wait to see the gastroenterologist and doctors have done basic tests which came back negative except the calprotectin test which was raised. I have asked to try cholestyramine.

Many thanks

[jbrking]

I’ve had cholestyramine (I’ve since moved to colesevelam tablets). Both meds cause some side effects initially. They make you dehydrated so you need to drink a lot of water. They also cause some cramping pains and give you gas but that gets better over a few months I found.

[Pollyboo]

Hi Julie, I have been on Cholestyramine for about 11yrs, I did have wind and bloating at first but it settled after a while. I find the best time for me to take it is before my evening meal as things then have time to settle down.Really although things aren't perfect I couldn't live without it. 1 sachet works for me every day, but I still take Imodium as needed.

Don't give up it can take about 3weeks to find it helps. I think you must give it a 10 day trial.

Take care Pollyboo