Prevalite Side Effects

Generic name: cholestyramine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 26, 2023.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Prevalite Side Effects associated with cholestyramine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Prevalite.

Applies to cholestyramine: oral powder for suspension.

In some animal studies, cholestyramine (the active ingredient contained in Prevalite) was found to cause tumors. It is not known whether cholestyramine causes tumors in humans.

Serious side effects of Prevalite

Along with its needed effects, cholestyramine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking cholestyramine:

Rare side effects

• black, tarry stools
• stomach pain (severe) with nausea and vomiting
• loss of weight (sudden)

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking cholestyramine:

More common side effects

• constipation

Other side effects of Prevalite

Some side effects of cholestyramine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• heartburn or indigestion
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain

Less common side effects

• belching
• bloating
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache

For healthcare professionals

Applies to cholestyramine: compounding powder, oral powder for reconstitution.

General adverse events

The most frequently reported side effect is constipation.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Constipation
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Tongue irritation, irritation of perianal area, abdominal discomfort/pain/distention, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, dyspepsia, steatorrhea
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Intestinal obstruction
• Frequency not reported: Rectal bleeding, black stools, hemorrhoidal bleeding, bleeding from known duodenal ulcer, dysphagia, hiccoughs, ulcer attack, sour taste, pancreatitis, rectal pain, diverticulitis, eructation, dental bleeding, dental caries, calcification of gallbladder, tooth discoloration, erosion of tooth enamel^[Ref]

Intestinal obstruction occurred rarely and 2 deaths in pediatric patients were reported.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Claudication, angina, arteritis, thrombophlebitis, myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia, postprandial angina increased^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Osteoporosis
• Frequency not reported: Backache, arthritis, muscle/joint pain^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Bleeding
• Frequency not reported: Prothrombin time increased, prothrombin time decreased, anemia, hypoprothrombinemia^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Anorexia, hyperchloremic acidosis, Vitamin A deficiency, Vitamin K deficiency^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Rash, skin irritation
• Frequency not reported: Ecchymosis, xanthoma of hands/fingers, urticaria^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Frequency not reported: Liver function test abnormal^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Headache, paresthesia, syncope, dizziness, drowsiness, femoral nerve pain^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Vertigo, weight loss, weight gain, glands swollen, edema, chest pain, tinnitus^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Arcus juvenilis, uveitis, night blindness^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Hematuria, dysuria, burnt odor to urine, diuresis^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Asthma, wheezing, shortness of breath^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Libido increased^[Ref]

Further information

Prevalite side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer