What is Colestid?
Colestid (colesevelam hydrochloride) is an oral hypolipidemic medication used in the treatment of primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia. It belongs to the class of cholesterol absorption inhibitors, which work by binding to bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract and preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream. This leads to a decrease in the production of cholesterol in the liver, ultimately resulting in lower levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Colesvelam is typically used as an adjunct to diet and exercise for patients who are unable to achieve adequate lipid-lowering with dietary measures alone or other medications.
What is Colestid used for?
Cholestyramine, commonly known by its trade name Colestid, is a bile acid sequestrant medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by binding to bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract and preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream, which in turn stimulates the liver to produce more bile acids from cholesterol, thereby reducing the overall amount of cholesterol available for absorption into the bloodstream.
Colestyramine is typically used as a first-line treatment for primary hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. It has also been shown to be effective in managing some cases of secondary hyperlipidemia, which can occur as a result of certain medical conditions or medications. Colestyramine may be prescribed alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering medications such as statins to achieve desired cholesterol levels. As with any medication, proper dosage and regular monitoring by a healthcare provider are essential for maximizing efficacy while minimizing potential side effects.
Colestid side effects
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
- Headache
- Hypotension
- Increased blood sugar
- Muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rash
- Weakness
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.