Cholestyramine Powder

Powder medications are meant to be mixed into food or treats, not given on their own (since most pets won’t lick up plain powder). The key is to mix it into something tasty so your pet eats the entire dose.

How to Give It:

1. Measure the dose using the included scoop or follow the instructions. If you’re unsure how much to give, ask your vet or pharmacist.
2. Mix it with a small amount of soft food or treat—like wet food, baby food (meat flavor), peanut butter (xylitol-free), yogurt, or cheese. Use just enough to hide the powder so your pet finishes it all in one go.
3. Stir it well to blend the powder in evenly. Add a splash of water if needed to make it smoother.
4. Offer it when your pet is a little hungry, and watch to make sure they eat the whole thing.
5. If your pet refuses, try something else they love next time. For cats, you can also try smearing the paste on their paw to lick off (only if safe and comfortable).
6. For large animals, mix the powder into a small portion of feed with water or molasses, then follow with the rest of their food once they’ve eaten the medicated part.
7. Store the powder in a cool, dry place with the lid closed tightly.

Never give powder straight into your pet’s mouth—it can be dangerous if inhaled.

"The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.

Cholestyramine is a bile acid-binding resin that is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. On the FDA-approved human label, it is indicated to lower cholesterol and to relieve itching associated with partial bile duct obstruction.

In veterinary medicine, cholestyramine is used off-label in dogs and cats, most often to bind certain toxins or excess bile acids within the gastrointestinal tract. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing, or monitoring."

Mix thoroughly with water or food as directed, since the powder is not palatable on its own. Because it binds substances in the gut, cholestyramine can also reduce the absorption of other oral medications and certain vitamins — give other drugs at least two hours apart from this one unless your veterinarian directs otherwise. Constipation is the most commonly reported effect. Contact your veterinarian if your pet is not eating or drinking normally, or if constipation is severe.