Gosset Molecular Classification
Physicochemical Interaction, Sequestration, Ion-exchange resin
Other Names
Bile Acid Binding, Bile Acid Adsorption, Bile Acid Exchange
Disease Roles
Bile Acid Sequestration Overview
Bile acid sequestration is a process by which bile acid sequestrants bind bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing their reabsorption and leading to increased fecal excretion. This interrupts enterohepatic circulation, forcing the liver to convert more cholesterol into bile acids, ultimately reducing circulating LDL cholesterol levels. While it's a process, it's targeted therapeutically to manage various conditions.
Mechanism of Action
Binds bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing their reabsorption and promoting their excretion in feces. This leads to increased hepatic conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, lowering serum LDL cholesterol.
Biological Functions
Lipid metabolism regulation
Cholesterol homeostasis
Bile acid homeostasis
Enterohepatic circulation disruption
Disease Associations
Hypercholesterolemia
Bile Acid Malabsorption
Pruritus associated with cholestasis
Type 2 Diabetes (adjunctive therapy)
Safety Considerations
- Gastrointestinal side effects (constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea)
- Drug interactions (reduced absorption of other medications)
- Potential for increased triglycerides
Interacting Drugs
Cholestyramine