Colestipol
Pseudomembranous Enterocolitis, Diarrhea ... 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
Colestipol
Summary
Colestipol is used to lower high cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (bad) cholesterol. It's often used alongside dietary changes. It's particularly useful for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia, a condition characterized by high cholesterol levels, who don't respond adequately to diet alone.
Colestipol works by binding bile acids in your intestines. These acids are then excreted from your body. This process reduces the amount of cholesterol in your blood, which can help lower your risk of heart disease.
For adults, the usual daily dose of Colestipol is between 2 to 16 grams, taken once or in divided doses. The starting dose is typically 2 grams once or twice daily. Dosage for children hasn't been established. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for pediatric use.
The most common side effects of Colestipol are gastrointestinal, including constipation, abdominal discomfort, gas, nausea, and vomiting. Constipation is the most common and can be severe. Serious side effects include unusual bleeding, such as from the gums or rectum.
Colestipol may interfere with the absorption of other medications and fat-soluble vitamins. It's important to take other drugs at least one hour before or four hours after taking Colestipol. Colestipol can cause or worsen constipation. Caution is advised in patients with preexisting constipation or hemorrhoids.
Indications and Purpose
How does Colestipol work?
Colestipol works by binding bile acids in the intestines, forming a complex that is excreted in the feces. This action reduces the reabsorption of bile acids, leading to increased conversion of cholesterol to bile acids, and ultimately lowering serum cholesterol levels.
Is Colestipol effective?
Colestipol is effective in lowering cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Clinical studies have shown that it binds bile acids in the intestine, leading to increased cholesterol clearance from the body. This results in reduced serum cholesterol levels, which can help lower the risk of coronary heart disease.
What is Colestipol?
Colestipol is used to lower high cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol, in conjunction with dietary changes. It works by binding bile acids in the intestines, which are then excreted from the body. This process reduces cholesterol levels in the blood, helping to lower the risk of heart disease.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Colestipol?
Colestipol is typically used as a long-term treatment to manage cholesterol levels. The duration of use depends on individual response and medical advice. Patients should continue taking it even if they feel well, and should not stop without consulting their doctor.
How do I take Colestipol?
Colestipol should be taken with plenty of liquid, and the granules should not be taken dry. It can be mixed with water, juice, or soft foods like soups or cereals. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is important to follow a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet as recommended by your doctor.
How long does it take for Colestipol to start working?
The decline in serum cholesterol levels with Colestipol treatment is usually evident by one month. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is recommended to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
How should I store Colestipol?
Colestipol should be stored in its original container, tightly closed, and kept out of reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom. Proper storage helps maintain the medication's effectiveness and safety.
What is the usual dose of Colestipol?
For adults, the usual daily dose of Colestipol is between 2 to 16 grams, taken once or in divided doses. The starting dose is typically 2 grams once or twice daily, with gradual increases at 1- or 2-month intervals. Dosage for children has not been established, and it is important to consult a healthcare provider for pediatric use.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Colestipol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Caution is advised when using Colestipol while breastfeeding, as it may affect the absorption of vitamins, which could impact the nursing infant. The potential benefits of treatment should be weighed against possible risks, and vitamin supplementation may be necessary to ensure proper nutrition for both mother and child.
Can Colestipol be taken safely while pregnant?
Colestipol is not absorbed systemically, so it is not expected to cause fetal harm when used during pregnancy. However, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. The potential benefits of treatment should be weighed against possible risks, and vitamin absorption interference should be considered.
Can I take Colestipol with other prescription drugs?
Colestipol can interact with several medications, potentially reducing their absorption. It is important to take other drugs at least one hour before or four hours after Colestipol. Notable interactions include propranolol, chlorothiazide, tetracycline, furosemide, and gemfibrozil. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking to avoid interactions.
Is Colestipol safe for the elderly?
There are no extensive clinical studies on the use of Colestipol in patients over 65. However, available data do not suggest that the elderly are more predisposed to side effects than the general population. Therapy should be individualized based on each patient's clinical characteristics and tolerance to the medication.
Who should avoid taking Colestipol?
Colestipol is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to its components. It may interfere with the absorption of other medications and fat-soluble vitamins. Patients should take other drugs at least one hour before or four hours after Colestipol. It can cause or worsen constipation, and caution is advised in patients with pre-existing constipation or hemorrhoids.