Cholestyramine Light and Perflutren lipid microsphere Intravenous

• Generic Name: cholestyramine
• Dosage Forms: powder, for suspension
• Other Brand Names: Cholestyramine Light, Prevalite, Questran, Questran Light, Locholest, Locholest Light, Questran Light Packets, Prevalite Packets, Questran Packets

Cholestyramine Light helps reduce cholesterol (fatty acids) in the blood. High cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).

Cholestyramine Light is used to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ("bad" cholesterol).

Cholestyramine Light powder is also used to treat itching caused by a blockage in the bile ducts of the gallbladder.

Cholestyramine Light may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: perflutren
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Definity, Optison

Perflutren lipid microsphere preparation is an ultrasound contrast agent. Ultrasound contrast agents are used to help provide a clear picture during ultrasound. Ultrasound is a special kind of diagnostic procedure. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images or “pictures” of certain areas inside the body. The sound waves produced by the ultrasound equipment can be reflected (bounced off) by different parts of the body, like for example, the heart. As the sound waves return they are electronically converted into images on a television screen. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound does not involve ionizing radiation.

The perflutren lipid microspheres preparation contains very small gas-filled lipid microspheres that reflect the sound waves and help create a better picture. The lipid microsphere preparation is given by injection into a vein before ultrasound to help diagnose problems of the heart.

Perflutren lipid microsphere is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor with specialized training in ultrasound procedures.