How To Use Colestipol (Colestid)

Colestipol hydrochloride comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth once or twice daily or granules for suspension to be taken by mouth once or six times daily. Try to take the medicine at around the same time every day.

Read the prescription label and package insert carefully, and take colestipol exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dose or dosing frequency without your healthcare provider’s approval. 

Colestipol tablets should be swallowed whole, one at a time, with plenty of water or other liquids. Do not crush, cut, or chew the tablets. 

Do not swallow Colestid Granules or Colestid Flavored Granules in dry form. This can lead to accidental inhalation or swallowing problems. Always mix the granules with at least 90 mL (3 ounces) of water or other fluids such as fruit juice, milk, or sodas. Stir the mixture well and ensure you ingest all the medicine. You can also mix the granules with thin soups, breakfast cereals, and pulpy fruit.

Take other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after colestipol as it can interfere with their absorption. If you are on combined therapy with gemfibrozil (Lopid), take it at least 2 hours away from colestipol.

Your doctor may start you on a lower dose of colestipol and gradually increase the dose. They may recommend a dose reduction if your cholesterol levels are well controlled. Your provider will order a lipid profile to check your cholesterol levels periodically. Keep all your medical and laboratory appointments during treatment with this medicine. High serum cholesterol levels do not typically cause symptoms but can increase your risk of serious chronic health problems. Continue treatment with colestipol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without talking to your healthcare provider.

Missed dose: If you miss a dose of colestipol, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose or extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Storage: Store colestipol at room temperature (between 15-30° C or 59-86° F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light in its original container, tightly closed. Do not store medications in the bathroom where they can be exposed to moisture and heat. Keep all medications safely out of reach of children and pets.

Unused medicine: Unused colestipol should be disposed of in a way that children, other people, and pets cannot get to them. Do not throw colestipol in the trash or flush it down the toilet. The best way to dispose of expired or unneeded colestipol is through a drug take-back program. Learn more about proper medication disposal. 

NOTE: This medication guide is a summary and may not contain all possible drug information on colestipol. The information contained here may not be up-to-date. This sheet is for information purposes only. If you have questions about colestipol, talk to your doctor for medical advice.

Discounted prices for colestipol (Colestid)
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