Cholestyramine is classified as what type of medication?

Cholestyramine is classified as a bile acid sequestrant. This class of medication works by binding to bile acids in the intestine, which prevents their reabsorption into the bloodstream. As a result, the liver compensates for the loss of bile acids by converting cholesterol into bile acids, thus reducing the level of cholesterol in the blood. This mechanism is particularly beneficial for patients with high cholesterol levels, as it helps lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

By effectively lowering LDL cholesterol, cholestyramine can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases related to high cholesterol levels. In addition, bile acid sequestrants can also have a minor impact on lowering blood sugar levels and are sometimes used in managing type 2 diabetes.

In contrast, other classes of medications such as statins, PCSK9 inhibitors, and fibrates work through different mechanisms to lower cholesterol levels, highlighting the unique role that bile acid sequestrants like cholestyramine play in lipid management.