Colestipol is used in combination with dietary changes to treat hypercholesterolemia. Less often, it is used to treat diarrhea caused by the flow of bile into the intestine after surgery. It is also helps treat pruritus associated with partial obstruction of the flow of bile caused by liver disease.
What is Colestipol?
Colestipol lowers cholesterol by binding to bile acids in the intestine and stimulating elimination through feces.
How should Colestipol be taken?
Colestipol is typically consumed in the form of granules or tablets.
Side effects associated with Colestipol
The most common side effect of Colestipol is constipation. Other possible side effects include the following:
- Abdominal pains
- Cramps
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Flatulence
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Ulcers
- Reduced absorption of nutrients
- Fatty stools
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Colestipol
Cortisone should not be taken in case of systemic fungal infection or if you are taking mifepristone.
Before starting treatment with Colestipol, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: carbamazepine, cholestyramine, anticoagulants, diuretics, propranolol, tetracycline, fat-soluble vitamins, thyroid hormones and ursodiol
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from any diseases
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
