Colesevelam is an antihyperlipidemic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved in the year 2000 for treating primary hyperlipidemia in adults.

Colesevelam is used to treat primary hyperlipidemia in adult patients. It helps lower elevated LDL cholesterol levels, which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. In addition to its cholesterol-lowering effects, this drug is known to improve blood sugar level control in patients with type 2 diabetes. It can help manage blood glucose levels, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with both high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.

Take the Colesevelam as your physician advises. Measuring the correct dosage and mixing it thoroughly before drinking is important. Only stop taking this powder if your doctor advises you to stop.

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with  Colesevelam are constipation, nausea and indigestion.

Do not use this drug if you have a known allergy or sensitivity to it or any components in the medication.  If you have type 2 diabetes and are taking medications to lower blood sugar, monitor your blood sugar levels closely when starting Colesevelam. Adjustments to your diabetes medications may be necessary. This drug can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including constipation, indigestion, and gas. These symptoms are more common when starting the medication or with higher doses. To minimize these effects, take this drug with meals and a full glass of water. If constipation persists, discuss it with your healthcare provider.

There is no limited information on the safety of Colesevelam in breastfeeding and pregnant women. Consult your doctor for more advice. Individuals with severe liver disease may require adjusted dosages or closer monitoring when taking this drug. The safety and effectiveness of this medicine in children and infants have not been established. This medication is prescribed for adults, so its use in pediatric populations may require careful consideration and monitoring.

Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as Colesevelam can lead to constipation in some individuals. Continue to follow a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and other recommendations from your healthcare provider for managing your specific condition.

1. Daiichi Sankyo Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Issued on April 2019] [Accessed on 25th Sep 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/210895s000lbl.pdf
2. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Drug therapy for Hypercholesterolemia and Dyslipidaemia, 12th edition, 2011, 898-899.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.