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Cholbam

Drug class: Digestive Enzymes

What is Cholbam?

Cholbam, also known as bile acids, is one of them. Bile acids help in the digestion of fats and some nutrients. Cholbam production is impaired in people with bile acid disorders. It can be difficult for the body's absorption of nutrients that are important for body function, health, and growth. The liver can become toxic if abnormal bile acid levels build up. Cholbam can be used to treat bile acid disorders. Cholbam normalizes bile acid production in the body. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Cholbam.

Side effects of Cholbam

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing and swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat. Get medical assistance immediately!

Cholbam can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Blood in your stool; changes in your bowel habits (such as diarrhea and constipation);
  • You may experience pain or burning after urinating.
  • Liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pain and itching; tiredness; loss of appetite; dark urine and clay-colored stools; jaundice are some symptoms associated with liver issues.

Cholbam can cause the following side effects:

  • Acid indigestion, heartburn
  • Nausea, diarrhea, and  stomach pain;
  • Painful urination
  • General ill feeling;
  • Jaundice;
  • Skin sores;
  • You may experience tingling or burning in your feet or hands.

There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if reporting side effects is needed.

Similar/related drugs

Cholic acid

Warnings

Please read and follow all instructions found on your medication's package or label carefully before beginning treatment. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.

Before you take this drug

Provide details to your physician relating to:

  • Liver disease
  • If you use cyclosporine,

Inform your physician immediately if you become pregnant or nursing. You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to monitor the effects of cholic acid on the child. Cholbam should not be given to children without medical advice. Cholbam cannot be used by children younger than three weeks.

How to take Cholbam?

Read and follow all instructions or guides included with your medication. Follow the directions on the label. Take with food Do not chew or crush the capsule. If you are unable to swallow the capsule, sprinkle the medicine on a small spoonful of soft food. Cholbam can be given to young children by mixing it with breast milk or baby formula. Mix the medicine with a small amount of breast milk or baby formula for 30 seconds. Use it immediately. The mixture should not be saved for future use. Cholbam comes in different capsule sizes. You may need to take up to eight capsules per dose. The doses of this medicine are calculated based on your weight. You may have to take two different sizes of capsules to get the full dose. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions for dosage. As you progress from childhood to adulthood, the recommended dose of cholic acid increases. Inform your doctor of any weight changes. Medical tests will be required frequently. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Avoid taking any other medicine by mouth while you are taking your Cholbam dosage. This medicine can interfere with the absorption of other medications. Take this medication at least one hour before, or four to six hours after:

  • Cholestyramine;
  • Colesevelam;
  • Colestipol;
  • An antacid containing aluminium: Acid-Gone, Di-Gel, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Maalox, Mylagen Mylanta, and Rulox.

Interaction with other drug

Cholbam can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.