Colestid (Colestipol) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 26, 2012

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Cholesterol »

Cholesterol facts

High cholesterol is also referred to as hypercholesterolemia (hyper=high + cholesterol + emia = in the blood) or hyperlipidemia
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is an important part of the outer lining of cells in the body of animals.
Cholesterol is also found in the blood circulation of humans.
Cholesterol in the blood originates from dietary intake and liver production.
Dietary cholesterol comes primarily from animal sources including meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products.
Organ meats such as liver, are especially high in cholesterol content.
LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called "bad" cholesterol, because elevated levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease.
HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called the "good cholesterol" because HDL cholesterol particles pre...

Read the Cholesterol article »

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Colestid Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

COLESTIPOL TABLET - ORAL

(koe-LES-ti-pol)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Colestid

USES: Colestipol is used along with a proper diet to lower cholesterol in the blood. Lowering cholesterol helps decrease the risk for strokes and heart attacks.

In addition to a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.

This medication is known as a bile acid-binding resin. It works by removing bile acid from the body. In people with high cholesterol, this causes the liver to make more bile acid by using cholesterol in the blood. This helps to lower the cholesterol levels.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 2 times a day. If your dose is more than 1 tablet, take the tablets one at a time. Do not try to swallow more than one tablet at once. Take each tablet with plenty of liquid (such as water, juice). Swallow each tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, consult your doctor.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. It may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Colestipol may decrease your absorption of other medications. Take your other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after colestipol. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol do not feel sick.