Drug Info:
Colestipol
Brand names: Colestid®
- Drug Forms:
- Colestipol tablets (below)
- Colestipol granules for oral suspension
Colestipol tablets
What are colestipol tablets?
COLESTIPOL (Colestid®) absorbs and combines with bile acids, which increases removal of cholesterol from the body through the stool. It lowers blood fats and cholesterol for patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke. It is only for patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet. It is not a cure. Generic colestipol tablets are not yet available.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:• bleeding problems or blood vessel disease
• constipation
• gall bladder disease
• hemorrhoids
• kidney disease
• under active thyroid
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cholestyramine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take colestid tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water; do not cut, crush or chew. Drink at least 4 fluid ounces of water with each dose of colestipol. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.What drug(s) may interact with colestipol?
• carbamazepine• heart medicines such as digoxin or digitoxin
• penicillin G
• phytonadione
• propranolol
• tetracycline antibiotics
• thyroid hormones
• ursodiol
• vancomycin
• vitamin A
• vitamin D
• warfarin
• water pills
In general, take other medicines at least 1 hour before, or 4 hours after a dose of colestipol, to avoid colestipol interfering with their absorption.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking colestipol?
Colestipol will not cure your condition, but taken regularly it will help keep down your cholesterol level. Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking colestipol, except on your prescriber's advice.Colestipol is only part of a total cholesterol-lowering program. Your physician or dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet that will reduce your risk of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.
Drink plenty of water while you are taking colestipol, to reduce the chance of getting constipated. Increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice if you are constipated.
What side effects may I notice from taking colestipol?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:• bloody or black, tarry stools
• severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting
• unusual bleeding
• weight loss
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• indigestion
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach upset, belching, bloating
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
