Colestid

The active ingredient in Colestid is colestipol hydrochloride, which is a bile acid sequestrant. It functions by binding to the bile acid in your intestines and forcing it out of your body through your stool. As a result, your liver produces more bile acid from your body's total cholesterol. Your blood cholesterol level, therefore, decreases.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Colestid. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Colestid:

• Colestid tablets should not be broken, chewed, or crushed. Eat it whole. Take one tablet at a time and swallow it.
• Drink a full glass of water along with the tablet.
• If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet or if it feels like it becomes lodged in your esophagus after swallowing, give your doctor a call.
• In a little amount of water, milk, broth soup, applesauce, hot or cold cereal, or crushed fruit (such as pineapple, pears, peaches, or fruit cocktail), dissolve the Colestid granules. Stir this concoction and immediately drink or consume all of it. Do not chew or hold the mixture in your mouth; instead, swallow it whole. If this medication comes into contact with your teeth for an extended period, it may cause harm.
• Colestid granules should never be used without first being mixed with food, water, or another liquid. You risk choking on the granules or inadvertently inhaling them if you take them in their dry form.
• Only use the dosage scoop included with your colestipol granules. When using a different brand of colestipol granules, the scoop might not be the appropriate size.
• Regular blood tests may be required when using Colestid.

The most common side effects of colestipol seen in clinical trials include:

• Constipation.
• Stomach pain.
• Stomach cramps.
• Bloating.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Heartburn.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Colestid. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Digestive tract blockage: extreme stomach discomfort, constipation, and blood in the stool.
• Allergic reactions to the medication, such as skin rash or hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, tongue, and throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Colestid. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Colestid, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Difficulty swallowing.
• Hemorrhoids or constipation.
• Obstruction in your digestive tract or digestion issues.
• Liver disease.
• A thyroid condition.
• A condition that causes bleeding. This is because the medication can cause low levels of vitamin K, which is an important vitamin that helps stop bleeding.
• Heart disease.
• A history of significant intestinal or stomach surgery.
• If you are deficient in any of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, or K.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU).

People who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in Colestid Tablets should not take them.

Before your cholesterol levels improve, you may need to take this medication for two weeks to many months. Continue taking the medication as prescribed for optimal effects.

Colestid is but one component of a treatment plan that may include weight management, exercise, and a healthy diet. Pay strict attention to your doctor's recommendations.

When Colestid is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Digoxin.
• Gemfibrozil.
• Tetracycline.
• Diuretics.
• Furosemide.
• Propranolol.
• Cholestyramine.
• Hydrochlorothiazide.
• Hydrocortisone.
• Mycophenolate.
• Warfarin.
• Folic acid.
• Penicillin G.

Colestid is usually started at a low dose. Depending on your serum cholesterol levels and any adverse effects, your doctor may increase your dosage every one or two months. For adults, Colestid Tablets are recommended in doses of 2 to 16 grams/day, given once or in divided doses. The starting dose should be 2 grams once or twice daily.

Colestid 1-gram tablets: The daily oral dosage can vary from 2 to 16 grams.

Colestid oral suspension granules (5 grams each scoop or packet): Five to thirty grams should be taken orally each day.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Pfizer is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Colestid.

There are several lower-cost generic versions of Colestid available.

Never stop using this medication without first consulting your physician. Your blood cholesterol levels may rise once more after you stop taking this medication.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Colestid should be used with caution if you are breastfeeding, as it may interfere with vitamin absorption in your infant. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.