Colestipol 5gm Granule Packets 30's

Colestipol hydrochloride is an insoluble, non-absorbable anion-exchange resin that binds bile acids in the intestine, forming an insoluble complex that is excreted in the feces. This interruption of the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids leads to an increased synthesis of bile acids from cholesterol in the liver. The increased demand for cholesterol in the liver results in an upregulation of hepatic LDL receptors, which increases the clearance of LDL-C from the blood, thereby lowering plasma LDL-C levels.

Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Trouble swallowing
Unexplained bruising or bleeding

Common Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:

Constipation
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Upset stomach
Vomiting
Heartburn
Stomach cramps
Gas
Muscle or joint pain
* Headache

Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor for medical advice. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is crucial to avoid potential interactions.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with them.

To ensure your safety, it is vital to verify that this medication is compatible with all your medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor. By sharing this information, you can help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment and minimize potential risks.

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.

To manage your condition effectively, adhere to the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor. If you experience constipation, increasing your fluid intake, engaging in regular physical activity, or adding more fiber to your diet may help alleviate symptoms. However, consult with your doctor before making any changes.

When taking this medication, it is crucial to administer other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking this drug to minimize potential interactions.

Long-term use of this medication may lead to low vitamin K levels, increasing the risk of bleeding. If you have concerns or questions, discuss them with your doctor. Additionally, if you have hemorrhoids, inform your doctor, as this medication may exacerbate the condition.

If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), consult with your doctor, as some products contain phenylalanine. It is also essential to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, as you will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks to both you and your baby.

• Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine): Reduced absorption
• Digoxin: Reduced absorption
• Warfarin: Reduced absorption (potential for altered INR)
• Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): Reduced absorption with long-term use
• Thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide): Reduced absorption
• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol): Reduced absorption
• Oral contraceptives: Potential for reduced efficacy (though data are mixed)
• Phenobarbital: Reduced absorption

• Statins (e.g., atorvastatin, simvastatin): Reduced absorption if co-administered too closely
• Fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil): Reduced absorption if co-administered too closely
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Potential for reduced absorption
• Other medications with narrow therapeutic index

• Constipation
• Abdominal discomfort/bloating
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Steatorrhea (rare, high doses)
• Symptoms of vitamin deficiency (e.g., easy bruising for Vitamin K, night blindness for Vitamin A)

Colestipol is not absorbed systemically, so maternal and fetal exposure is minimal. It is generally considered a safer option for hyperlipidemia management in pregnancy when diet and lifestyle changes are insufficient, especially compared to statins. However, potential for fat-soluble vitamin deficiency exists, which could impact fetal development.

Colestipol is not absorbed systemically by the mother, so it is not excreted into breast milk. It is considered compatible with breastfeeding. However, monitor for potential fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies in the mother, which could indirectly affect milk composition.

Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients. Use is generally off-label and reserved for severe cases of familial hypercholesterolemia under specialist supervision. Potential for growth retardation due to fat-soluble vitamin malabsorption is a concern with long-term use.

No specific dose adjustment is required. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to constipation and other gastrointestinal side effects. Monitor hydration status and bowel habits closely.

• Colestipol is a non-systemic agent, making it a good option for patients who cannot tolerate or are contraindicated to systemic lipid-lowering agents.
• The most common side effects are GI-related, particularly constipation. Advise patients to increase fluid intake and dietary fiber.
• Crucial to counsel patients on the timing of other medications (1 hour before or 4-6 hours after colestipol) to avoid drug interactions.
• Long-term use may necessitate supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and folic acid.
• Granules must be mixed thoroughly with liquid or soft food; never take dry.
• While effective for LDL-C lowering, colestipol can sometimes increase triglycerides, especially in patients with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia.

• Cholestyramine (another bile acid sequestrant)
• Colesevelam (another bile acid sequestrant)
• Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors)
• Ezetimibe (cholesterol absorption inhibitor)
• PCSK9 inhibitors
• Fibrates (for hypertriglyceridemia, but also affect LDL-C)
• Niacin (nicotinic acid)

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to ensure you receive the best possible care.