Definition

A medication that helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and can also relieve itching caused by liver problems by binding to bile acids in the intestines and helping the body get rid of them.

Example

The doctor prescribed cholestyramine to help lower my cholesterol levels.

Conversation

Have you heard about cholestyramine?

Yeah, I read it helps lower cholesterol levels.

Exactly! I was thinking of asking my doctor about it.

That sounds like a good idea, especially if you have concerns.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cholestyramine is formed from "chole-" (from Greek "chole", meaning bile) and "styramine" (derived from the resin of the styrax tree, which contains styrene). The word refers to a compound that interacts with bile acids, thus affecting cholesterol levels.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bile' ('chole-') and a substance that interacts with it ('styramine') to remember that cholestyramine is used to manage cholesterol.

Visually Confused Words