What are the main uses of Colestipol. How does Colestipol work to lower cholesterol levels. What are the common side effects of taking Colestipol. How should Colestipol be taken for maximum effectiveness. What precautions should be considered when using Colestipol. Can Colestipol interact with other medications. Who should avoid taking Colestipol.

Understanding Colestipol: An Overview

Colestipol is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as bile acid sequestrants. It is primarily used to control high cholesterol levels in the blood. Colestipol is available as a 1 gm oral tablet, often marketed under the brand name Colestid. This medication is typically prescribed in conjunction with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, or in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications.

How does Colestipol work to lower cholesterol? Colestipol functions by binding to bile acids in the digestive system and removing them from the body. As a result, the body uses cholesterol to produce new bile acids, effectively reducing the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream. This mechanism of action can potentially decrease the risk of heart attacks associated with atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.

Primary Indications for Colestipol Use

Colestipol is prescribed for several medical conditions, including:

• High blood fat levels (hyperlipidemia)
• Drug overdose (in certain cases)
• Itching (pruritus) associated with certain liver conditions

Is Colestipol effective in treating all types of high cholesterol? While Colestipol is primarily used to lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol, it may not be as effective in reducing triglycerides or increasing HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol. Therefore, it is often used in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies for a comprehensive approach to managing cholesterol levels.

Proper Administration and Dosage Guidelines

To ensure the maximum effectiveness of Colestipol, it is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions carefully:

1. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing.
2. Take the medication with water or juice.
3. Wait at least 1 hour after taking other medicines before taking Colestipol.
4. Do not take any other medications for 4 hours after taking Colestipol.
5. Store the medication at room temperature, protected from moisture and high humidity.

How much water should be consumed while taking Colestipol? It is recommended that adults drink 6-8 cups (48 to 64 oz.) of water every day while on this medication. Adequate hydration helps prevent constipation, a common side effect of Colestipol.

Managing Side Effects and Potential Risks

Like all medications, Colestipol can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Constipation
• Excess gas
• Nausea
• Stomach upset or abdominal pain

To alleviate constipation, it is advisable to consume a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and engage in regular exercise. These measures can help maintain regular bowel movements while taking Colestipol.

What are the more serious side effects of Colestipol that require immediate medical attention? While rare, severe side effects may occur and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. These include:

• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Severe stomach or bowel pain
• Difficulty swallowing

In rare cases, allergic reactions to Colestipol may occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If any of these symptoms are observed, it is crucial to seek immediate medical help.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

Colestipol can interact with various medications, potentially affecting their absorption or efficacy. To minimize the risk of interactions, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Why is it important to space out the administration of Colestipol and other medications? Colestipol can bind to other drugs in the digestive tract, reducing their absorption. To prevent this, it is recommended to take other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking Colestipol.

Special Considerations for Certain Populations

Pregnant women, those planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider before using Colestipol. The safety of this medication during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully established, and the potential risks and benefits should be carefully evaluated.

Monitoring and Long-term Management

Consistent use of Colestipol is crucial for maintaining its cholesterol-lowering effects. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you feel well. Regular check-ups and blood tests may be necessary to monitor cholesterol levels and assess the medication’s effectiveness.

How long does it take to see results from Colestipol treatment? The full effect of Colestipol on cholesterol levels may not be apparent for several weeks to months after starting treatment. Therefore, patience and adherence to the prescribed regimen are essential for achieving optimal results.

Lifestyle Modifications to Enhance Colestipol’s Effectiveness

While Colestipol can be an effective tool in managing high cholesterol, its benefits can be maximized when combined with lifestyle modifications. These may include:

• Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Engaging in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking, if applicable
• Limiting alcohol consumption

Can lifestyle changes alone be sufficient to control cholesterol levels? For some individuals with mildly elevated cholesterol, lifestyle modifications may be enough to bring levels into a healthy range. However, for those with significantly high cholesterol or additional risk factors for heart disease, medication such as Colestipol may be necessary in conjunction with lifestyle changes.

Alternative Treatments and Combination Therapies

Colestipol is one of several options available for managing high cholesterol. Other treatments may include:

• Statins: A class of medications that block cholesterol production in the liver
• Ezetimibe: A drug that reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestines
• PCSK9 inhibitors: Injectable medications that help the liver remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood
• Fibrates: Medications that primarily lower triglyceride levels
• Niacin: A B vitamin that can help raise HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides

In some cases, Colestipol may be prescribed in combination with one or more of these treatments for a more comprehensive approach to lipid management.

What factors determine the choice of cholesterol-lowering medication? The selection of the most appropriate treatment depends on various factors, including the individual’s lipid profile, overall health status, potential drug interactions, and personal preferences. A healthcare provider will consider these factors when developing a tailored treatment plan.

Emerging Research and Future Perspectives

As medical research continues to advance, new insights into cholesterol management and cardiovascular health are emerging. Some areas of ongoing investigation include:

• Development of novel bile acid sequestrants with improved efficacy and tolerability
• Exploration of the potential benefits of Colestipol in managing other health conditions
• Investigation of genetic factors that influence response to cholesterol-lowering treatments
• Research into the long-term cardiovascular outcomes of various lipid-lowering strategies

These ongoing studies may lead to refined treatment approaches and potentially new indications for medications like Colestipol in the future.

Patient Education and Support

Effective management of high cholesterol with Colestipol requires active patient involvement and understanding. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about:

• The importance of medication adherence
• Proper administration techniques
• Potential side effects and how to manage them
• The need for regular follow-up appointments and blood tests
• The role of lifestyle modifications in conjunction with medication

How can patients stay informed about their cholesterol management? Patients are encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification, and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. Additionally, reputable online resources, support groups, and educational materials can provide valuable information and support for individuals managing high cholesterol.

Technological Tools for Cholesterol Management

In the digital age, various technological tools can assist patients in managing their cholesterol levels and medication regimens:

• Smartphone apps for medication reminders and tracking
• Wearable devices that monitor physical activity and heart health
• Online platforms for logging dietary intake and exercise
• Telemedicine services for remote consultations with healthcare providers

These tools can enhance patient engagement and facilitate more effective communication between patients and their healthcare team.

In conclusion, Colestipol represents an important option in the arsenal of cholesterol-lowering medications. When used appropriately and in conjunction with lifestyle modifications, it can contribute significantly to reducing cardiovascular risk. As with any medical treatment, close collaboration between patients and healthcare providers is essential for achieving optimal outcomes and ensuring safe, effective use of this medication.

What is Colestipol Oral Tablet 1 gm?

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

• drug overdose
• itching
• high blood fat levels

Brand Name(s): Colestid

Generic Name: Colestipol

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Take the medicine with water or juice.

After taking other medicines, wait at least 1 hour before taking this medicine. Do not take any other medicines for 4 hours after taking this medicine.

Keep this medicine at room temperature. Protect from moisture and high humidity.

Drink extra water while on this medicine. Adults should try to drink 6-8 cups (48 to 64 oz.) of water every day.

To reduce constipation, eat high fiber foods, drink plenty of water and exercise.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

Cautions

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• constipation
• excess gas
• nausea
• stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• chest pain
• confusion
• severe stomach or bowel pain
• difficulty swallowing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.

There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.

The display and use of this drug information is subject to Terms of Use.

https://api.meducation.com/V2.0/fdbpem/8111

Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.

Selected from data included with permission and copyright by First DataBank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.

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Colestid – Uses, Side Effects, Interactions

How does this medication work? What will it do for me?

Colestipol belongs to the class of medications known as bile acid sequestrants.  This medication is used to control high cholesterol. It is usually taken in combination with diet, exercise, or other cholesterol-lowering medications.

It works by binding to bile acids and removing them from the digestive system. Cholesterol then breaks down to replace the bile acids, removing the cholesterol from the blood. A reduction in cholesterol may reduce the risk of a heart attack associated with atherosclerosis (buildup of fat lining the walls of the arteries leading to the heart).

This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.  Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

What form(s) does this medication come in?

Granules

Each packet contains 5 g of colestipol. Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide.

Orange Granules

Each packet contains 7.5 g of orange granules equivalent to 5 g of colestipol. Nonmedicinal ingredients: aspartame (phenylalanine 18.2 mg/7.5 g granules), artificial flavour, beta carotene, citric acid, glycerin, maltol, mannitol, methylcellulose, and natural flavour.

Tablets

Each light yellow, film-coated tablet contains 1 g of colestipol HCl. Nonmedicinal ingredients: carnauba wax, cellulose acetate phthalate, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, povidone, and triacetin. The tablets contain no calories.

How should I use this medication?

The usual adult dose of colestipol ranges from 2 g to 16 g daily for the tablets, or 5 g to 30 g daily for the granules and orange granules, depending on circumstances. The medication may be given in a single dose or in divided doses.

The tablets should be swallowed whole and not cut, chewed, or crushed. The prescribed amount of tablets can be taken with water or other fluids. The tablets should be taken with meals.

The granules should be added to at least 100 mL of water, milk, flavoured drink, juice, or carbonated beverage. A heavy or pulpy juice may also be used. The mixture should be stirred well until the medication is completely suspended in the liquid. The granules and orange granules will not dissolve. After drinking the mixture, rinse the glass with a small amount of beverage to make sure all the medication is taken. The granules can also be mixed with milk in breakfast cereals, or along with pulpy fruits such as crushed pineapple, pears, peaches, or fruit cocktail. The granules and orange granules should never be taken dry.

Other medications should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after colestipol.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

Who should NOT take this medication?

Colestipol HCl resin should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to colestipol or to any of the ingredients of the medication
• has blocked bile ducts where bile is not secreted into the intestine

In addition, the orange granules should not be used by anyone with phenylketonuria (PKU) as they contain phenylalanine (each 7.5 g of orange granules contains 18.2 mg of phenylalanine).

What side effects are possible with this medication?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• belching
• bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• fatigue
• gas
• headache
• heartburn
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• rash
• spinning sensation
• stomach pain
• trouble sleeping
• vomiting
• weakness

Although most of these side effects listed below don’t happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not check with your doctor or seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• bleeding or worsening hemorrhoids
• chest pain
• increased heart rate
• increased liver enzymes
• joint, muscle, or back pain
• loss of weight (sudden)
• rapid heartbeat
• shortness of breath
• symptoms of gall bladder inflammation or gallstones (e. g., severe, dull pain that comes and goes in the upper right part of the abdomen; nausea; vomiting; intolerance of fatty or greasy foods)

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• black, tarry stools
• signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, or swelling of the face and throat)
• stomach pain (severe) with nausea and vomiting

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Bleeding tendency: In rare cases, long-term use of colestipol may cause vitamin K deficiency and therefore increase a tendency to bleed if injured.

Constipation: Colestipol may cause or worsen constipation. Increase your fluid and fibre intake to prevent constipation; your doctor may also recommend a stool softener.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while using this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: If you are breast-feeding, discuss this with your doctor before taking cholestyramine resin. This medication may interfere with your ability to absorb certain vitamins.

Children: There is limited experience with the use of colestipol by children. Experts recommend, however, that drug treatment be considered for children 10 years or older who have tried diet therapy but still have unacceptably high serum cholesterol levels. In certain situations where a young child has extremely high serum cholesterol levels, medication treatment may even be started before 10 years of age.

If the child is started on medication therapy, a carefully planned diet therapy should also be followed in order to obtain best results. However, the safety of the tablets for use by patients under 18 years old has not been established. Because colestipol may interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K), the growth and development of children taking the medication should be monitored closely.

Seniors: People over 60 years of age may be more likely to experience gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) and nutritional (deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K) side effects.

What other drugs could interact with this medication?

There may be an interaction between colestipol and any of the following:

• amiodarone
• bezafibrate
• birth control pills (estrogen, progestin)
• oral corticosteroids (e. g., dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, prednisone)
• deferasirox
• digoxin
• diltiazem
• ezetimbe
• fenofibrate
• furosemide
• gemfibrozil
• leflunomide
• lomitapide
• methotrexate
• multivitamin/mineral supplements
• mycophenolate
• niacin
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs; e.g., diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)
• pravastatin
• propranolol
• raloxifene
• teriflunomide
• tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
• thiazide diuretics (e.g., chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide, indapamide, metolazone)
• thyroid replacements (e.g., dessicated thyroid, levothyroxine)
• ursodiol
• vancomycin
• vitamin D analogues (e.g., alfacalcidol, calcifediol, calcitriol, cholecalciferol)
• warfarin

If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.  Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Colestid

Pharmacy on Volodarsky st. 07

Activated charcoal+&shy, bile+&shy, stinging nettle leaves+&shy, garlic bulb

Farmgroup

Cholagogues and enzymes

Composition

One coated tablet contains: dried bulbs – 40,000 mg, nettle leaves – 5,000 mg, activated charcoal – 25,000 mg.

Excipients: magnesium oxide, potato starch, talc, polysorbate (tween-80), calcium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, primogel, shell composition: sucrose (sugar), magnesium hydroxycarbonate (basic magnesium carbonate), titanium dioxide, povidone (polyvinylpyrrolidone low molecular weight medical 12600+2700, K-17), talc, solid paraffin, vaseline oil, beeswax, polysorbate (tween-80).

Pharmacological action

Combined preparation. Choleretic (cholekinetic and choleretic) agent, reduces the processes of putrefaction and fermentation in the intestine. It enhances the secretory function of liver cells, reflexively increases the secretory and motor activity of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

Increases the formation of bile and bile acids. The action of bile is due to the reflex effect on the secretory function of the liver parenchyma. Bile also enhances the secretory and motor functions of the gastrointestinal tract. Substances contained in garlic enhance the secretory and motor function of the gastrointestinal tract, stimulate the secretion of bile. Nettle leaves have choleretic and anti-inflammatory properties. Activated charcoal is an adsorbent that binds toxic substances in the gastrointestinal tract.

Pharmacokinetics

The active ingredients of the drug are well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Cholic and chenodeoxycholic acids contained in the preparation undergo 7-alpha-dehydroxylation in the intestine. Chenodeoxycholic acid, in addition, is metabolized in the liver: conjugated with amino acids, secreted into bile, from where it is again excreted into the intestine, then partially reabsorbed, the rest is excreted through the intestine.

Indications for use

As part of complex therapy: chronic reactive hepatitis, cholangitis, acalculous (non-calculous) cholecystitis, biliary dyskinesia of the hypokinetic type, atonic constipation, postcholecystectomy syndrome.

Contraindications

Increased sensitivity to the components of the drug, calculous cholecystitis, obstructive jaundice, acute hepatitis, acute and subacute liver dystrophy, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum (in the phase of exacerbation), acute enterocolite, acute pancreatitis, sugar shortage, shortage of sugar PS/isomaltase , fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, children under 12 years of age.

Precautions

In diabetic patients and in persons on a low carbohydrate diet.

Use during pregnancy and during breastfeeding

During pregnancy and during breastfeeding, the use of the drug is possible on the recommendation of a doctor and only if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus and child.

Special instructions

The preparation contains sucrose, which should be taken into account in patients with diabetes mellitus. One tablet contains about 0.1 g of sucrose (sugar), which corresponds to 0.01 XE, the maximum daily dose of the drug contains about 0.8 g of sucrose (sugar), which corresponds to 0.08 XE.

Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms

The use of the drug does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and engage in other potentially hazardous activities that require increased concentration and speed of psychomotor reactions.

Dosage and administration

Inside, after meals.

Adults – 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day.

Children over 12 years old – 1 tablet 3 times a day.

The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks. With exacerbation of diseases, 1 tablet 2-3 times a day for 1-2 months. Repeated courses of treatment are carried out with an interval of 3 months after consulting a doctor.

Consult a physician before using this medicine in children.

Side effects

Possible allergic reactions, diarrhea, increased activity of “liver” transaminases in the blood serum.

If any of the side effects listed in the instructions get worse, or you notice any other side effects not listed in the instructions, tell your doctor.

Overdose

No cases of overdose have been registered so far.

Possible symptoms: diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, pruritus, increased activity of “liver” transaminases in the blood.

Treatment: symptomatic.

Interaction with other drugs

Preparations containing aluminum hydroxide, cholestyramine, colestipol reduce absorption and reduce the effect of the drug.