Side Effects of Questran

Questran is the brand name for cholestyramine, a medication prescribed to lower high cholesterol and to improve itching associated with liver and biliary disease. Questran comes in a powder to be mixed with water or juice. Several side effects are possible, but most are not common.

Most Common Effect

• The most likely side effect when taking Questran is constipation, which also can result in hemorrhoids. The patient may need to drink more fluids, eat more fiber or take a stool softener.

Less Common Effects

• Other less common gastrointestinal side effects are possible. These include abdominal pain, bloating, burping, diarrhea, excessive gas, heartburn, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain.

Serious Side Effects

• Serious side effects call for medical attention. These include difficulty swallowing, severe black tarry stools, stomach pain along with nausea or vomiting, skin rash, unexplained bleeding and unexplained muscle pain or weakness.

Teeth Concerns

• Sipping Questran or holding it in the mouth can eventually result in tooth discoloration, enamel erosion and cavities.

Drug Interactions

• Questran decreases the absorption of digoxin, thiazide diuretics, thyroid hormones and warfarin. Taking these drugs 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking Questran can solve this problem. Questran also reduces the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K, which can lead to vitamin deficiencies with long-term use.