Is Questran (colestyramine) a brand name for the drug?

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Last updated: October 15, 2026 • View editorial policy

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Yes, Questran is a brand name for colestyramine (cholestyramine).

Questran is the branded formulation of cholestyramine (also spelled colestyramine), a bile acid sequestrant resin available as an oral suspension. 1

Product Details

The FDA-approved drug label confirms that QUESTRAN (Cholestyramine for Oral Suspension USP) contains cholestyramine resin as its active ingredient, specifically 4 grams of anhydrous cholestyramine resin per 9 grams of QUESTRAN powder. 1 A lighter formulation, QUESTRAN LIGHT, contains the same 4 grams of cholestyramine in 5 grams of powder, using aspartame instead of sucrose as a sweetener. 1

Clinical Context

Questran/cholestyramine functions as a bile acid sequestrant that:

  • Binds bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption 2
  • Is used primarily for lowering LDL cholesterol in hypercholesterolemia 1
  • Treats pruritus associated with partial biliary obstruction 1
  • Manages bile acid diarrhea (BAD) 2, 3

Important Nomenclature Note

The terms "cholestyramine" and "colestyramine" are used interchangeably in medical literature and refer to the same medication. The FDA label uses "cholestyramine" 1, while international guidelines may use "colestyramine" 2. Both spellings are correct and refer to the identical drug compound.

References

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