Colesevelam is a drug to lower levels of bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL). This drug can also be used to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Colesevelam lowers the amount of bad cholesterol by binding to bile acids, preventing their re-absorption, and excreting them through the digestive tract. That way, the liver will use blood cholesterol to form bile acids, and cholesterol levels will decrease.
In order for treatment to be more effective, people with high cholesterol must also adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a low-fat diet and regular exercise.
Colesevelam trademark:-
What is Colesevelam
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Bile acid binder |
| Benefit | Helps lower LDL levels and lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| Colesevelam for pregnant and lactating women |
Category B: Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women.
Colesevelam is not absorbed into breast milk. However, breastfeeding mothers are advised to still consult a doctor before using this drug. |
| Drug form | Powder and tablets |
Precautions Before Taking Colesevelam
Before taking this drug, you need to pay attention to the following:
- Do not use colesevelam if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have diabetic ketoacidosis , intestinal obstruction, very high triglyceride levels , or pancreatitis due to hypertriglycerides. Colesevelam should not be used by these patients.
- Tell your doctor if you have difficulty swallowing ( dysphagia ), have or have recently had surgery on the digestive tract, or are deficient in fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, K.
- Colesevelam should not be used in patients under 10 years of age and girls who have not had menstruation.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- See a doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to the drug or an overdose after using
Dosage and Rules for Use Colesevelam
The dose of colesevelam will be determined by the doctor according to the patient's condition and the dosage form of the drug. In general, the following is the dosage of Colesevelam in the treatment of high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes mellitus according to the dosage form of the drug.
The dose for adults is 1.875 grams or the equivalent of 3 tablets, 2 times a day. An alternative dose is 3.75 grams or the equivalent of 5 tablets, once a day.
How to Consume Colesevelam Correctly
Follow the doctor 's recommendations and read the information listed on the drug packaging before consuming colevelam. Do not reduce or increase your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Colesevelam can be taken with food. Try to take the drug at the same time every day for maximum treatment.
Swallow the colevelam tablet whole with the help of a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablets
Dissolve the colevelam powder into the drink. This drug should not be consumed in dry form. Consume a drink that has been mixed with medicine until it runs out, in order to get the right dose.
If you are taking supplements or other medications, take them at least 4 hours before taking colesevelam.
During treatment with cosevelam, your doctor may ask you to have regular blood tests . Follow the examination schedule that has been determined by the doctor.
If you forget to take Colesevelam, it is advisable to take it immediately if the gap between the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Store colesevelam in a dry place and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Keep this drug out of reach of children.
Interactions of Colesevelam with Other Drugs
The following are some of the interactions between drugs that can occur when colesevelam is used with other drugs:
- Decreased effects or levels of warfarin in the body
- Decreased blood concentrations of ciclosporin , phenytoin, glibenclamide , ethinyl estradiol, or norethindrone
- Decreased absorption of vitamins A , D, E and K in the body
Colesevelam Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that can occur after taking Colesevelam are:
- Constipation
- Stomach ache or heartburn
- Headache
- Back pain
- Muscle ache
Consult a doctor if the side effects above do not subside immediately or get worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Severe stomach pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding