Colestipol is a drug commonly used to help lower total and LDL cholesterol levels. This section of the eMedTV Web site contains more information on this prescription medication, including how it works, dosing guidelines, and potential side effects.
What is colestipol used for? As this eMedTV article explains, the drug is used for the treatment of high cholesterol. Regular use can help reduce the risk of developing complications often associated with high cholesterol, such as chest pain.
This eMedTV segment provides a list of possible side effects of colestipol, such as constipation, vomiting, and nausea. Other side effects may be more serious and require medical attention, including unexplained bleeding or difficulty swallowing.
Dosing with colestipol usually starts at 2 to 16 grams in tablets or 5 to 30 grams in granules. This eMedTV segment offers other important dosing information, including tips and precautions for taking the medicine.
This eMedTV page contains a list of medications that may cause drug interactions with colestipol, such as propranolol, ursodiol, and digoxin. The combination of drugs can bind to the intestines and, therefore, not fully absorb into the body.
Colestipol can cause constipation, so drink plenty of water with the medicine. This eMedTV page lists other precautions and warnings with colestipol that you should be aware of, including other possible side effects and who should avoid the drug.
Common colestipol alternatives may include other cholesterol medicines or other bile acid sequestrants. This eMedTV resource offers a more in-depth look at various alternative drugs, such as niacin, fibrates, and statins.
