Colestipol

Generic name: colestipol [ koe-LES-ti-pol ]
Brand names: Colestid, Colestid Flavored
Dosage forms: oral granule for reconstitution (5 g; 5 g/7.5 g); oral tablet (1 g)
Drug class:Bile acid sequestrants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 21, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is colestipol?

Colestipol is a cholesterol-lowering drug.

Colestipol lowers "bad" cholesterol in the blood, which is also called LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Lowering your LDL cholesterol may reduce your risk of hardened arteries, which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, and circulation problems.

Lowering high cholesterol levels is an important part of preventing heart disease and arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Colestipol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Do not take colestipol granules without mixing them with water or another liquid. Taking the granules dry could cause you to accidentally inhale or choke on the granules.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take colestipol if you are allergic to it.

To make sure colestipol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• trouble swallowing;

• constipation or hemorrhoids;

• blockage in your intestines;

• a stomach or digestive disorder;

• liver disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• a bleeding disorder;

• a history of major stomach or bowel surgery; or

• if you have a vitamin A, D, E, or K deficiency.

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