See information below on IBS and this treatment. To create a Treatment Checklist, go to the bottom of the screen and enter your information in the four sections: 1) past or present use, 2) frequency and duration, 3) did this treatment work?, and 4) significant side effects. To see the next treatment either click on the treatment list at the bottom of the screen or click ‘Save and Continue to Next Treatment.’ Click ‘Submit (Done)’ to generate a list to print or email, to discuss with your physician.

Bile acid binders (cholestyramine (Questran), colestipol (Colestid), colesevelam (Welchol))

How it works:
By binding to bile acids in the GI tract, these medications prevent excess fluid secretion and motility in the colon that can lead to diarrhea.
Which symptoms it helps:
Diarrhea.
How long it takes to see a benefit:
As quickly as one week but it can take several weeks to find the right dose.
Who may benefit:
IBS-D.
FDA approved:
N/A
Dosage:
The dose of bile acid binders varies based upon the specific medication (cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam).
Special considerations or risks:
Other oral medicines should not be taken at or around the time of taking the bile acid binders. Bile acid binders can prevent the absorption of other medications.
Most common side effects:
Constipation, gas, bloating, nausea and vomiting.

Recommendation:
While the ACG does not suggest the use of bile acid binders to treat overall IBS-D symptoms, they can be helpful in treating diarrhea.

Recommendation:
N/A
Quality of Evidence:
N/A
Level of Evidence:
Ø
Past and Present Use Frequency and Duration Did this treatment work? Significant Side Effects
Past Use   Present Use   Yes   No   N/A