Colestipol is a drug to lower bad cholesterol or cholesterol low-density lipoprotein (LDL). By lowering bad cholesterol levels, the risk of heart attack and stroke can also be lowered.
Colestipol is included in the type of drug bile acid sequestrant or bile acid binders. This drug works by removing bile acids from the body, so the liver can produce more bile acids using cholesterol in the blood.
To reduce bad cholesterol levels, drug consumption must be combined with healthy lifestyle settings, for example by exercising regularly or reducing high-fat foods.
Colestipol trademark:-
What is Colestipol
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Bile acid binder |
| Benefit | Helps lower bad cholesterol levels |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| Colestipol for pregnant and lactating women | Category C:Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not known whether colestipol is absorbed into breast milk or not. Breastfeeding mothers are advised to consult a doctor before using this medicine. |
| Drug form | Powders and tablets |
Precautions Before Taking Colestipol
Before taking this drug, you need to pay attention to the following:
- Do not use colestipol if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had constipation, liver disease, difficulty swallowing, thyroid disease, hemorrhoids, blood clotting disorders, gallstones, stomach disease, intestinal obstruction, or kidney disease.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had surgery on your stomach, intestines, or digestive tract.
- Tell your doctor before taking colestipol if you have phenylketonuria. Some colestipol products may contain phenylalanine.
- Colestipol should not be used in patients under 18 years of age.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, supplements, or herbal products. Colestipol can affect the absorption of folic acid and fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking colestipol.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Colestipol
Colestipol is only given on the advice of a doctor. The following are common doses of colestipol for high cholesterol to lower bad cholesterol (LDL):
- Tablet formThe dose is 2 grams, 1-2 times a day, then increase the dose by 2 grams after 1-2 months of treatment. The maintenance dose is 2–16 grams per day, once daily or divided into several doses.
- Powder formThe dose is 5 grams, 1-2 times a day, then increase the dose by 5 grams after 1 month of treatment. The maximum dose is 30 grams per day, divided into 1-2 doses.
How to Take Colestipol Correctly
Follow the doctor's advice and read the information listed on the medicine package before taking colestipol. Do not reduce or increase the dose without consulting your doctor first.
Colestipol can be taken before or after meals. Try to take colestipol at the same time every day for maximum treatment.
Swallow colestipol tablets whole with the help of a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet
Dissolve colestipol powder into a drink or food. This medicine should not be taken in dry form. Consume food or drink that has been mixed with medicine until it runs out, in order to get the right dose.
Swallow the colestipol solution immediately without gargling or keeping it in your mouth, as this medicine can damage your teeth if left for too long.
If you are taking other medicines, take them at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after taking colestipol.
During treatment with colestipol, your doctor may ask you to have regular blood tests. Follow the examination schedule that has been determined by the doctor.
If you forget to take colestipol, it is advisable to take it immediately if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Store colestipol in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Colestipol Interactions with Other Drugs
Colestipol may inhibit the absorption of the following medicines when taken together:
- Folic acid
- Phosphate Supplements
- Tetracycline
- Penicillin G
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Furosemide
- Gemfibrozil
- Fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin D or A
- Digoxin
- Mycophenolic acid
- Propranolol
Colestipol Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that can occur after taking colestipol are:
- Stomach ache
- Bloated
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Bloody stools or black stools
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
Check with your doctor if the side effects above do not subside or get worse. You should also see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction after taking colestipol.
