Which category of drugs for hyperlipidemia is contraindicated if triglycerides exceed 400 mg/dL?

Bile acid sequestrants are the category of drugs for hyperlipidemia that are contraindicated when triglyceride levels exceed 400 mg/dL. The primary reason for this contraindication is that bile acid sequestrants can further elevate triglyceride levels in patients who already have high triglycerides. This can increase the risk for pancreatitis, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

In patients with significant elevations in triglycerides, it is more appropriate to consider other treatment options that are effective in managing high triglyceride levels, such as fibrates or omega-3 fatty acids, rather than introducing a medication that could worsen the situation. Hence, using bile acid sequestrants at high triglyceride levels is not advisable for safe and effective management of lipid disorders.