Choltran Sachet

Product Overview

Choltran Sachet is a powdered medication containing Cholestyramine as its active ingredient. This resin-based formulation works by binding bile acids in the digestive tract, facilitating their elimination from the body. The sachet presentation offers convenient dosing for managing elevated cholesterol levels or relieving pruritus (itching) related to hepatic conditions.

Uses

This medication is primarily indicated for:
– Treatment of hypercholesterolemia (elevated blood cholesterol)
– Management of pruritus associated with partial biliary obstruction

Choltran Sachet achieves its therapeutic effects by sequestering bile acids in the intestinal lumen, thereby interrupting their enterohepatic circulation and promoting fecal excretion. This mechanism stimulates hepatic cholesterol utilization for bile acid synthesis, resulting in reduced serum cholesterol levels.

How to Use

Administration guidelines:
1. Empty one sachet’s contents into 4-6 ounces of liquid (water, juice, or non-carbonated beverage)
2. Stir thoroughly until completely dispersed
3. Consume immediately to prevent thickening
4. Best taken with meals (1-2 times daily as prescribed)

Mechanism of Action

Cholestyramine resin acts as a non-absorbable anion exchange polymer that:
– Binds bile acids in the intestinal lumen
– Forms insoluble complexes excreted in feces
– Depletes hepatic cholesterol stores for bile acid synthesis
– Upregulates LDL receptor activity
– Lowers serum cholesterol through increased LDL clearance

Dosage and Administration

Standard dosing protocol:
– Initial: 4g once or twice daily
– Maintenance: 4-12g daily in divided doses
– Maximum: 24g daily (in severe cases)

Important administration notes:
– Always mix with adequate liquid (minimum 60mL)
– Administer other medications 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after Choltran
– Gradually increase dosage to minimize GI effects

Therapeutic Benefits

Clinical advantages include:
– Significant LDL cholesterol reduction (15-30%)
– Potential cardiovascular risk reduction
– Effective pruritus relief in cholestatic conditions
– Non-systemic action with minimal absorption
– Established safety profile in long-term use

Common Adverse Effects

Frequently reported side effects:
– Gastrointestinal (40-50% incidence):
– Constipation (most common)
– Abdominal discomfort
– Flatulence
– Nausea
– Metabolic (rare):
– Hyperchloremic acidosis
– Vitamin malabsorption (A,D,E,K)

Important Precautions

Special considerations:
– Contraindicated in complete biliary obstruction
– Use caution in patients with:
– GI motility disorders
– Dysphagia
– Hemorrhoids
– Recent abdominal surgery
– May interfere with absorption of:
– Warfarin
– Digoxin
– Thyroid hormones
– Fat-soluble vitamins

Storage Requirements

Proper storage conditions:
– Maintain at 15-30°C (59-86°F)
– Protect from moisture
– Keep in original packaging
– Store away from children
– Discard expired product properly

Medical Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. While we strive for accuracy, this content:
– Is not exhaustive
– May not reflect recent developments
– Should not replace professional consultation
– Does not cover all possible interactions

Always consult your healthcare provider regarding:
– Proper diagnosis
– Treatment options
– Potential drug interactions
– Individualized dosing
– Monitoring requirements