COLESEVELAM - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (KOE-le-SEV-e-lam)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Welchol
GENERIC NAME(S): colesevelam HCl
Uses
USES: This medication is used along with a proper diet and exercise 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. Colesevelam is also used along with a proper diet and exercise to lower high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Colesevelam 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. It is not known how colesevelam works in lowering blood sugar.
How to use COLESEVELAM - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with a meal, usually 1 to 2 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Take the tablet form with a liquid (such as water, milk). If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, talk to your doctor about switching to the powder form of this medication. If you are using the powder form of this medication, pour the contents of one packet into a glass. Add one-half to one cup (4 to 8 ounces or 120 to 240 milliliters) of water, fruit juice, or diet soda. Stir the mixture well and drink. Do not take the powder without mixing it in liquid. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. It may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Colesevelam may decrease the absorption of other products you may be taking. Some examples include cyclosporine, glipizide, glimepiride, glyburide, levothyroxine, and phenytoin, as well as birth control pills that contain ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone. Take other medications as directed by your doctor, usually at least 4 hours before taking your colesevelam dose. Ask your pharmacist if you are not sure when to take your medications.
Side Effects
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Faq for COLESEVELAM - ORAL
Colesevelam is an oral medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
Colesevelam works by binding to bile acids in the intestine, which reduces their reabsorption. This leads to an increased excretion of cholesterol and a decrease in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Colesevelam is primarily used to treat high cholesterol levels, specifically elevated LDL cholesterol levels. It may also be used in combination with other medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
The common side effects of Colesevelam include constipation, gas, stomach pain, indigestion, and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and may improve over time.
Colesevelam tablets should be taken with a meal and a glass of water to prevent stomach upset. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Yes, Colesevelam can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid any potential interactions.
The effects of Colesevelam on cholesterol levels can be seen within a few weeks of starting the medication. However, it may take up to 4 to 6 weeks to see the full benefits.
There are no specific dietary restrictions while taking Colesevelam. However, it is always recommended to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to optimize its effectiveness.
Colesevelam should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking this medication in these situations.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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