Ion exchangers

They are insoluble macromolecular resins that bind bile acids (cholesterol metabolites) in the intestinal lumen and prevent their reabsorption.

Under normal circumstances, about 95% of the bile acids excreted are returned to the liver (enterohepatic circulation).

Reduced return after ion exchange administration leads to increased bile acid synthesis from cholesterol. This results in increased uptake of LDL by the liver and mobilization of cholesterol from the tissues.

Side effects

 * Constipation, bloating (it is therefore advisable to supplement the diet with fibre-rich foods),
 * rarely malabsorption of vitamin K,
 * dry peeling skin,
 * absorption of some drugs may be impaired (cardiotonics, thiazide diuretics, warfarin, some NSAIDs - it is advisable to administer these drugs at least one hour before application of the ion exchanger).

Agents

 * Cholestyramine.
 * Colestipol.

Related articles

 * Hypolipidemics
 * Lipoproteins