VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
Biliary sludge syndrome is a condition characterized by the formation of biliary sludge, which is a mixture of cholesterol monohydrate crystals, phospholipids, and calcium. This condition can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and fatty stools. The formation of biliary sludge is often associated with the use of certain medications that alter bile composition.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The most likely drug involved in the development of biliary sludge syndrome is **Cholestyramine**. Cholestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by binding to bile acids in the intestine and preventing their reabsorption, which leads to an increased excretion of bile acids in the feces. However, this can also lead to a decrease in the concentration of bile salts in the bile, making it more prone to the formation of biliary sludge.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is not relevant to the development of biliary sludge syndrome.
* **Option B:** This option is not directly related to the formation of biliary sludge.
* **Option D:** While this option may have some effect on bile composition, it is not the most likely drug involved in biliary sludge syndrome.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Bile acid sequestrants like Cholestyramine can lead to changes in bile composition, increasing the risk of biliary sludge formation.
**Correct Answer:** C. Cholestyramine.