Cholestyramine

Cholestyramine is an FDA-approved medication used to lower high cholesterol levels, and the science behind it is pretty cool. In essence, cholestyramine works by binding to bile acid and removing it from the body, which then prompts the liver to use cholesterol to produce bile, rather than the bile acid it would normally use. Through this chain reaction, cholestyramine brings elevated cholesterol in the blood back down to normal levels. That’s the simplified version of the process, but it explains why people look to cholestyramine for other healing purposes—namely helping rid the body of toxins, like mold. It’s thought to be an incredibly effective binder, and as a treatment, it seems to be pretty safe and well-tolerated. Cholestyramine is the generic name for a medication sold under two brand names, Prevalite and Questran. Both come as a user-friendly powder or (rarely) a chewable bar. If you're using the powder, stir the mixture into a glass of water or mushy food like apple sauce. Don't add it to hot liquids! If you are prescribed a bar, chew it slowly before swallowing. It’s smart to follow your practitioner’s instructions carefully when taking cholestyramine, because you don’t want to take more or less than the recommended dosage, even though this medication is quite safe. Know that some cholestyramine products contain sugar, artificial sweeteners, or both, so if these ingredients are on your no-no list, let your practitioner know (they may be able to find an alternative for you). If you are taking cholestyramine for Lyme or another invisible illness, you probably know it's being prescribed “off-label.” That means your practitioner believes this medication is beneficial even if it is not FDA-approved for your condition. Don’t worry! Cholestyramine for invisible illnesses is legal and often part of standard integrative medicine practice.