Colestipol is a type of bile acid-binding resin that helps the liver to produce more bile acid. When the liver produces more bile acid, it consequently helps the body in eliminating more cholesterol and lowering cholesterol levels.
Colestipol is recommended to individuals suffering from primary hypercholesterolemia, or those who have high cholesterol. It is advised that Colestipol is taken to complement an exercise program and a healthy diet consisting of a low fat and low-cholesterol foods. Colestipol is marketed under the brand name Colestid.
Colestipol is administered orally. The usual dosage is 1-2 times a day. Users should take Colestipol with a large glass of water. In case the physician prescribes dosage of more than 1 tablet, never swallow both tablets. Instead, take them one after another. Never chew or crush the tablets.
The dosage for Colestipol is usually based on the patient’s medical condition. Physicians usually increase the dosage once the patient responds well to the treatment. It usually takes 2 weeks up to several months before Colestipol effectively lowers the cholesterol level in the body.
For best results, it is recommended that patients follow the prescribed dosage. It helps if patients take Colestipol during the same time every day so they will not miss out on a dosage.
Patients should also take other drugs an hour before and 4 hours after they have taken Colestipol. They should never take 2 doses of Colestipol to make up for a missed dosage.
One of the most common side effects of Colestipol is constipation. It is advised that patients drink lots of water, at least 8 glasses each day, to prevent constipation.
Other side effects of Colestipol include indigestion, pain in the abdomen, upset stomach, diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, irritation of the hemorrhoids, and vomiting. In case any of these side effects continue or worsen, patients should immediately notify their physicians.
Some of the more unlikely but severe side effects include muscle aches, pain and stiffness in the joints, unexplained bruising or bleeding, headache, and loss of appetite.
It is very rare that users of Colestipol suffer from serious allergic reaction. Patients may however experience swelling, itching, rashes, difficulty in breathing, and dizziness, which all indicate allergic reaction to the medication.
Patients should inform their physicians of any allergy to Colestipol or any other drug. They should also inform their physicians if they have intestinal obstruction.
A patient’s medical history should be noted before prescribing Colestipol. Swallowing problems, a history of major intestinal procedure, treatment with thyroid medication, constipation problems, liver troubles, and certain bleeding troubles such as hypoprothrombinemia should be taken into account.
It has not been established if taking Colestipol can be passed into infants through breast-feeding.
Certain drugs whether prescription or non-prescription drugs, may also interfere with Colestipol. Patients should inform their physicians if they are taking other drugs like propranolol, hydrochlorothiazide, chorothiazide, gefibrozil, digoxin, oral phosphate supplements, hydrocortisone, and tetracycline.
Likewise, Colestipol may interfere with the body’s absorption of these drugs if they are taken closely with the dosage of Colestipol.
Colestipol has the following structural formula:
• Molecular formula of colestipol is C11H28ClN5O
• Chemical IUPAC Name is N'-(2-aminoethyl)-N-[2-(2-aminoethylamino)ethyl] ethane-1,2-diamine; 2-(chloromethyl)oxirane
• Molecular weight is 281.826 g/mol
Brand name(s): Cholestabyl, Colestid, Colestipolum, Flavored Colestid
Review published on: 06 July 2009
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