A client is prescribed cholestyramine. Which statement from the nurse reflects accurate education regarding this drug therapy?

Cholestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant used to lower LDL cholesterol by binding bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract. This prevents their enterohepatic recirculation, forcing the liver to utilize systemic cholesterol to synthesize new bile acids; however, this non-specific binding also interferes with the absorption of essential lipids and medications. A. The primary therapeutic indication for cholestyramine is the reduction of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol rather than increasing High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL). While a modest increase in HDL may occur, the drug's mechanical action is specifically targeted at lowering the circulating levels of atherogenic LDL particles through bile acid depletion. B. Because cholestyramine binds bile acids, it can significantly impair the absorption of FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS (A, D, E, and K). Long-term therapy requires clinical monitoring for deficiencies, and SUPPLEMENTATION may be necessary to prevent complications such as coagulopathy (from Vitamin K deficiency) or osteomalacia (from Vitamin D deficiency). C. This statement is incorrect as cholestyramine is known to decrease, not increase, the absorption of other oral medications. It acts as a physical barrier in the gut, binding to other drugs such as digoxin, warfarin, and thiazides. Other medications should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after cholestyramine. D. Muscle soreness or myalgias are classic adverse effects associated with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), not bile acid sequestrants. Cholestyramine's side effects