Colesevelam
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus , Pseudomembranous Enterocolitis ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Bile Acid Sequestrant
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Colesevelam is used to lower LDL cholesterol, which is often called "bad" cholesterol. It also helps improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. By managing these conditions, colesevelam supports heart health and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Colesevelam works by binding bile acids in the intestine, which helps remove cholesterol from the body. This process lowers LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, improving heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease.
The usual starting dose of colesevelam for adults is 3.75 grams once daily or 1.875 grams twice daily. It should be taken with meals to help absorption. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Common side effects of colesevelam include constipation, indigestion, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you notice new symptoms, talk with your doctor.
Colesevelam can cause constipation, which may be severe. It may also affect the absorption of other medications, so take it at least 4 hours before or after other drugs. It's contraindicated in people with bowel obstruction or high triglyceride levels.
Indications and Purpose
How does colesevelam work?
Colesevelam works by binding bile acids in the intestine, which helps remove cholesterol from the body. Think of it like a sponge soaking up excess cholesterol. This process lowers LDL cholesterol, which is often called "bad" cholesterol, in your blood. By reducing cholesterol levels, colesevelam helps improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Is colesevelam effective?
Colesevelam is effective in lowering LDL cholesterol, which is often called "bad" cholesterol. It works by binding bile acids in the intestine, which helps remove cholesterol from the body. Clinical studies show colesevelam can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels, improving heart health. It's often used alongside diet and exercise to manage cholesterol levels effectively.
What is colesevelam?
Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant used to lower LDL cholesterol, which is often called "bad" cholesterol. It works by binding bile acids in the intestine, which helps remove cholesterol from the body. Colesevelam is often used alongside diet and exercise to manage cholesterol levels effectively. It may also be used to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take colesevelam?
Colesevelam is usually a long-term medication for managing cholesterol levels. You'll typically take it every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your cholesterol levels to rise. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your colesevelam treatment.
How do I dispose of colesevelam?
To dispose of colesevelam, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. First, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take colesevelam?
Colesevelam is usually taken once or twice daily with meals. It's important to take it with food to help your body absorb it better. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for colesevelam to start working?
Colesevelam starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. It can take several weeks to see significant changes in your cholesterol levels. Regular blood tests will help monitor your progress. How quickly the medication works can depend on your diet, exercise, and overall health. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store colesevelam?
Store colesevelam at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. Always keep colesevelam out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of colesevelam?
The usual starting dose of colesevelam for adults is 3.75 grams once daily or 1.875 grams twice daily. It should be taken with meals. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 3.75 grams per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can colesevelam be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Colesevelam is generally considered safe while breastfeeding, as it is not absorbed into the bloodstream and is unlikely to pass into breast milk. However, always consult your doctor before taking any medication while breastfeeding. Your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you and your baby.
Can colesevelam be taken safely while pregnant?
Colesevelam is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but there's limited evidence on its absolute safety. It's important to manage cholesterol levels during pregnancy, but always consult your doctor before taking any medication. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take colesevelam with other prescription drugs?
Colesevelam can interact with certain medications, reducing their effectiveness. It may affect the absorption of drugs like warfarin, thyroid medications, and some diabetes drugs. To prevent interactions, take colesevelam at least 4 hours before or after other medications. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Does colesevelam have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of colesevelam include constipation, indigestion, and nausea. These effects are generally mild. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe constipation or intestinal blockage. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to colesevelam and suggest appropriate actions.
Does colesevelam have any safety warnings?
Colesevelam has important safety warnings. It can cause constipation, which may be severe in some cases. If you experience severe abdominal pain or constipation, contact your doctor. Colesevelam may also affect the absorption of other medications, so take it at least 4 hours before or after other drugs. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to ineffective treatment or increased side effects.
Is colesevelam addictive?
Colesevelam is not addictive or habit-forming. It doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Colesevelam works by binding bile acids in the intestine, which doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking colesevelam?
It's generally safe to drink alcohol in moderation while taking colesevelam. However, alcohol can affect cholesterol levels and overall health. It's best to limit alcohol consumption and discuss your drinking habits with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Is it safe to exercise while taking colesevelam?
Yes, it's safe to exercise while taking colesevelam. Exercise is an important part of managing cholesterol levels. Colesevelam doesn't typically limit exercise capacity. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms during physical activity, such as dizziness or fatigue, talk with your doctor.
Is it safe to stop colesevelam?
Colesevelam is often used long-term for managing cholesterol levels. Stopping it suddenly may cause your cholesterol levels to rise. Always talk with your doctor before stopping colesevelam. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
What are the most common side effects of colesevelam?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of colesevelam include constipation, indigestion, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you notice new symptoms after starting colesevelam, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking colesevelam?
Colesevelam should not be used if you have a history of bowel obstruction, which is a blockage in the intestines. It's also contraindicated in people with high triglyceride levels, which are a type of fat in the blood, as it may worsen this condition. Always consult your doctor about any health concerns before starting colesevelam.
