Cholestran is primarily used to treat certain conditions associated with high blood cholesterol levels, especially in people who have high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) or who have a high risk of developing heart and artery disease. The drug works by binding bile acids in the digestive system and reducing the absorption of cholesterol, which helps reduce its levels in the blood.
Cholestran can also be prescribed as a supplement to treat high cholesterol, in addition to following a healthy diet that is low in fat and cholesterol. The drug may be used in some cases to treat diarrhea resulting from malabsorption of bile acids in some patients.