Olestyr Light

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine).

Bleeding tendency: Long-term use of Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) resin may increase bleeding tendency due to vitamin K deficiency.

Constipation: Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) resin may produce or worsen constipation. Fecal impaction (a large mass of stool that may be lodged in the colon) and worsening of hemorrhoids may occur.

Pregnancy: Since Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) resin is not absorbed by the body, it is not expected to harm the baby during pregnancy when taken in recommended doses. However, Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) may reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K), which should be taken into account when planning for vitamin intake during pregnancy.

Breast-feeding: Breast-feeding mothers should exercise caution when taking Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) resin. The possible lack of proper vitamin absorption may have an effect on breast-feeding infants.

Children: The effects of Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) on children are not known. Experts recommend, however, that treatment with Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine) be considered for children 10 years or older who have tried diet therapy but still have unacceptably high serum cholesterol levels. In certain situations where a young child has extremely high serum cholesterol levels, treatment with medication may even start before 10 years of age. If a child starts treatment with Olestyr Light (Cholestyramine), a carefully planned diet should be followed in order to obtain best results.

Seniors: People over 60 years of age may be more likely to experience gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) side effects.