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Home > Drug Category > Cholesterol Medications > Colestid and Equivalent

Colestid Information

Colestid (colestipol hydrochloride) is a bile acid sequestrant primarily used as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of elevated serum total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated LDL-C) who do not respond adequately to diet alone. It works by binding bile acids in the intestine, forming a complex that is then excreted in the feces. This non-systemic action prevents the reabsorption of bile acids, leading to an increased conversion of cholesterol into bile acids by the liver. This results in an increase in the number of LDL receptors on liver cells, which in turn leads to increased uptake of LDL from the blood, ultimately lowering serum cholesterol levels.

Colestid Side Effects

The most common side effects of Colestid are usually gastrointestinal. They may include constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. These reactions are often mild and may improve with continued use. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Difficulty swallowing or feeling like a tablet is stuck in your throat.
• Severe constipation or stomach pain.
• Signs of an allergic reaction: Rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising: This may include black, tarry, or bloody stools.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

Colestid Precautions

Do not use Colestid if you are allergic to colestipol hydrochloride or any of its ingredients. Do not use Colestid if you have a complete biliary obstruction where bile is not secreted into the intestine. If you are using Colestid Orange granules, do not use them if you have phenylketonuria (PKU), as they contain phenylalanine. Before starting this medication, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a history of constipation, hemorrhoids, bleeding problems, or problems with your kidneys or liver. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Colestid can interfere with the absorption of other orally administered drugs. It is generally recommended to take different medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking Colestid to minimize potential interactions. Colestid may also interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and folic acid, especially with long-term use. Your doctor may recommend a multivitamin supplement. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Colestid. It is not known if Colestid is safe to use during human pregnancy. Animal studies have shown no evidence of harm to a fetus; however, controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks to the fetus. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before using Colestid. It is unknown if colestipol passes into breast milk or if it may harm a nursing infant. Your doctor will help you decide whether to continue breastfeeding or discontinue the medication, considering the importance of the drug to the mother. The safety and effectiveness of Colestid in pediatric patients under 18 years of age have not been established. In older adults (over 60 years of age), gastrointestinal side effects and potential nutritional deficiencies may be more likely.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Colestid comes as tablets and granules for oral suspension. Swallow tablets whole with plenty of liquid; do not crush, chew, or split them. If taking granules, mix them thoroughly with at least 3 ounces of fluid (e.g., water, juice, milk) or soft food (e.g., applesauce) before consuming. Do not take the granules dry, as this can cause choking. It is often recommended to take Colestid with meals. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose over several weeks to help minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Continue using the medication for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. While taking Colestid, maintain a high intake of fluids and fiber to help prevent constipation. Store Colestid at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C or 59°F and 86°F). Protect from heat, direct sunlight, moisture, and humidity. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Colestid?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Colestid.