Bile Acid Sequestrants

Bile acid sequestrants stimulates production of bile acids, which are formed from cholesterol.  LDL is used to form cholesterol, thereby reducing plasma cholesterol levels.  Bile acid sequestrants reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and can interfere with the absorption of other medications.

Class Drugs

• Cholestyramine

• Colesevelam

Class Mechanism of Action

Binds to bile acids and bile salts

• Reduction in bile acids stimulates increased production of bile acids, which are formed from cholesterol

• LDL particles are then taken up by cells to for formation of bile salts and acids, reducing plasma cholesterol level

Class Applications

Hyperlipidemia

Class Adverse Effects

• GI disturbance

• Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins D, E, A, and K

• Interference with absorption of warfarin, digoxin, and other drugs)

• Elevated triglyceride levels

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Cholestyramine	Treatment of pruritis in patients with biliary stasis		"Coal" "Styrofoam"
Colesevelam			"Coal" "Seven Lambs"