Colestipol Oral

Colestipol Oral Uses

This medication is used with a proper diet to lower cholesterol in people with high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Lowering cholesterol decreases the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks.

Colestipol belongs to a class of drugs called bile acid-binding resins. Bile acid is a natural substance the liver makes by using cholesterol. This medication works by removing bile acid from the body. This causes the liver to make more bile acid by using cholesterol, which reduces cholesterol levels in the blood.

How To Use Colestipol Oral

Take this medication by mouth, usually 1 to 2 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Take each dose with a large glass (8 ounces/240 milliliters) of liquid (such as water, milk). If your prescribed dose of colestipol is more than 1 tablet per dose, take the tablets one at a time because the tablets are large. Do not try to swallow more than one tablet at once. However, swallow each tablet whole. Do not cut, crush, or chew the tablets.

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.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Colestipol may decrease the absorption of other medications you may be taking. Therefore, take other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking your colestipol dose.

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Dosage and Storage