The bile acid sequestrants, cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid), have proven long-term safety and effectiveness. A newer sequestrant called colesevelam (Wel-Chol) became available in 2000. Sequestrants effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels, especially when taken in combination with statins or niacin. A number of studies have shown that such combinations slow the progression--or even cause modest regression--of plaques. Bile acid sequestrants can modestly raise triglyceride levels, however. Rarely, bile acid sequestrants can also interfere with the absorption of folic acid. Taking the sequestrants at the proper times is important to avoid interfering with the absorption of other drugs.

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