Skip to main content

Colestid (Colestipol) Shopper Approved

Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: Tablet

Colestid

(Brand Option)

Select the prescribed dosage

Select the quantity to see the price.

  *  
Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: Tablet

Colestipol

We don't sell this generic-version medication.

Select the quantity to see the price.

  *  
delivery

* This price includes a dispensing fee, medical review fee, and packing fee.

delivery

Shipped and delivered directly to your doorstep

Colestid (active ingredient: colestipol hydrochloride) is a prescription cholesterol-lowering medication. It is used together with a cholesterol-lowering diet and other lifestyle measures to reduce high levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in people with primary hypercholesterolemia.

What Is Primary Hypercholesterolemia?

Primary hypercholesterolemia is a condition in which cholesterol levels in the blood are higher than normal, often because of genetic and lifestyle factors.

The main type of cholesterol targeted by Colestid is low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol. LDL is often called “bad” cholesterol because high levels can contribute to fatty buildup inside the arteries.

Over time, this buildup can narrow the arteries and increase cardiovascular risk.

What Is Colestid Used For?

Helps Lower LDL Cholesterol

Colestid is used to lower elevated LDL cholesterol in people whose cholesterol has not improved enough with diet and other non-medication measures alone.

By lowering LDL cholesterol, Colestid can help improve a person’s overall cholesterol profile as part of a broader treatment plan.

Helps Lower Total Cholesterol

Colestid may also reduce total cholesterol levels.

Your healthcare provider may order regular blood tests to check your cholesterol levels and determine how well the medication is working.

Used Along With Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Colestid is not meant to replace healthy lifestyle habits.

Treatment usually includes a cholesterol-lowering diet and may also include:

  • Regular physical activity
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Limiting foods high in saturated and trans fats
  • Managing diabetes or high blood pressure when present
  • Avoiding smoking

Colestid may be added when these measures alone do not lower LDL cholesterol enough.

How Colestid Works

Colestid belongs to a group of medicines called bile acid sequestrants.

Unlike many cholesterol medicines, colestipol is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream. It works mainly inside the digestive system.

Binds to Bile Acids

The liver uses cholesterol to make bile acids.

Bile acids are released into the intestines to help digest fats. Normally, much of the bile acid is then reabsorbed and returned to the liver.

Colestid binds to these bile acids while they are in the intestines.

Removes Bile Acids From the Body

Once Colestid binds to bile acids, the resulting complex cannot be easily reabsorbed.

Instead, the bile acids are removed from the body through the stool.

Makes the Liver Use More Cholesterol

Because more bile acids are being removed, the liver needs to produce replacements.

To make new bile acids, the liver uses cholesterol.

This process increases the liver’s demand for cholesterol and helps lower the amount of LDL cholesterol circulating in the bloodstream.

Helps Remove LDL From the Blood

As the liver needs more cholesterol, it can increase its uptake of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Over time, this helps lower LDL levels.

What Effect Does Colestid Have on Triglycerides?

Colestid mainly lowers LDL and total cholesterol.

It generally does not produce a significant reduction in triglycerides. In some people, triglyceride levels may actually increase during treatment. Because of this, your healthcare provider may monitor both LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Colestid May Be Used With Other Cholesterol Medicines

Some people need more than one medication to reach their cholesterol goals.

A healthcare provider may prescribe Colestid together with another cholesterol-lowering medicine when one treatment alone does not provide enough improvement. Evidence in the prescribing information indicates that its cholesterol-lowering effect can be additive with certain statins.

The treatment plan should be individualized based on cholesterol levels, other medical conditions, and cardiovascular risk.

What to Expect During Treatment

Colestid does not usually produce noticeable symptoms when it is working.

You may feel the same even while your cholesterol levels are improving. Blood tests are therefore important for checking whether treatment is effective.

Your healthcare provider may periodically measure:

  • Total cholesterol
  • LDL cholesterol
  • HDL cholesterol
  • Triglycerides

Your dose may be adjusted based on these results.

Colestid Controls High Cholesterol

Colestid helps lower cholesterol while you are taking it, but it does not permanently cure primary hypercholesterolemia.

Cholesterol levels may rise again if treatment is stopped.

Continue taking Colestid and following your recommended diet and lifestyle plan unless your healthcare provider tells you to make a change.

Important Treatment Reminder

Take Colestid exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Because bile acid sequestrants can affect the absorption of some other medicines and nutrients, tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you use.

Regular cholesterol testing can help determine whether Colestid is lowering your LDL cholesterol effectively and whether your treatment needs to be adjusted.

Colestid tablets are taken by mouth to help lower LDL cholesterol. The dose is adjusted based on your cholesterol levels, response to treatment, and how well you tolerate the medication.

Take Colestid exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Swallow the Tablets Whole

Colestid tablets should be swallowed whole.

Take the tablets one at a time with plenty of water or another suitable liquid. Do not crush, chew, cut, or break the tablets before swallowing them.

If you have trouble swallowing the tablets, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist rather than altering them on your own.

Take Colestid With or Without Food

Colestid tablets may be taken with or without food.

Try to follow the same routine each day so it is easier to remember your doses. Your healthcare provider may also recommend specific timing if you take other medicines.

Starting Dose

A common starting dose of Colestid tablets is 2 grams once or twice daily.

Your healthcare provider may start with a lower amount and gradually increase the dose, especially if you are prone to constipation.

Dose Adjustments

Your dose may be increased gradually depending on your cholesterol test results.

Dose adjustments are generally made at intervals of about 1 to 2 months. This gives your healthcare provider time to see how well the medication is lowering your cholesterol and whether you are tolerating it.

Regular blood tests may be used to check total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides during treatment.

Maximum Daily Dose

The maximum recommended dose of Colestid tablets is generally 16 grams per day.

The total daily dose may be taken at one time or divided into smaller doses, depending on your treatment plan.

Do not increase your dose without instructions from your healthcare provider.

Take Other Medicines at a Different Time

Colestid can bind to some medications in the intestine and reduce how much of them your body absorbs.

Unless your healthcare provider gives you different instructions, take other oral medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after Colestid.

This spacing is important because taking medicines too close together may make the other medication less effective.

Tell Your Healthcare Provider About Other Medicines

Before starting Colestid, tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you use.

Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you create a dosing schedule that keeps Colestid separated from medicines that may interact with it.

Take Colestid Regularly

Take Colestid on a regular schedule, even if you feel well.

High cholesterol usually does not cause noticeable symptoms, so you may not feel any different when the medication is working.

Blood tests are the best way to determine whether your cholesterol levels are improving.

Continue Your Cholesterol-Lowering Diet

Colestid is intended to be used along with diet and other lifestyle measures.

Continue following the cholesterol-lowering diet, exercise plan, and other recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.

The medication works best as part of an overall cholesterol-management plan.

Constipation During Treatment

Constipation is an important side effect of colestipol and may become worse as the dose increases.

Your healthcare provider may increase the dose slowly to reduce this problem. Adequate fluids and dietary fiber may also be recommended when appropriate.

Contact your healthcare provider if constipation becomes severe or does not improve.

If You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose.

If your next dose is close, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

How Long Will You Need to Take Colestid?

High cholesterol often requires long-term management.

Your healthcare provider will monitor your cholesterol levels and determine how long you should continue Colestid. Do not stop taking it simply because you feel well or your cholesterol numbers improve.

Stopping cholesterol treatment may allow your cholesterol levels to rise again.

Important Treatment Reminder

Take Colestid exactly as prescribed. Swallow each tablet whole with plenty of liquid, take other oral medicines at least 1 hour before or 4 hours afterward, and do not exceed the prescribed daily dose.

Regular cholesterol testing will help your healthcare provider determine whether your dose needs to be adjusted.

Common Side Effects of Colestid (colestipol hydrochloride):

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Gas or flatulence
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Rectal irritation

Serious Side Effects of Colestid (colestipol hydrochloride):

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Confusion
  • Rapid breathing
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Loss of appetite

Colestid (colestipol hydrochloride) is available in the following forms and strength:

Colestid: Tablet

  • 1 g

Constipation

Colestid can cause or worsen constipation. Use it carefully if you already have constipation or a history of serious bowel problems.

Your healthcare provider may start with a lower dose and increase it gradually. Drinking enough fluids and eating enough fiber may also help when appropriate. Contact your healthcare provider if constipation becomes severe or you have significant abdominal pain.

Medication Interactions

Colestid can bind to other medicines in the digestive tract and reduce how much of them your body absorbs.

Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you take. Other oral medicines generally need to be taken at a different time from Colestid.

Reduced Vitamin Absorption

Colestid may interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, especially folic acid and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and K.

People who use Colestid for a long time may need monitoring or supplementation. Do not start vitamin supplements without first discussing them with your healthcare provider.

Vitamin K and Bleeding Risk

Long-term use of Colestid may reduce vitamin K absorption.

Low vitamin K levels can increase the risk of unusual bleeding. This may be especially important if you take a blood thinner or already have a bleeding disorder.

Tell your healthcare provider if you develop frequent bruising or unusual bleeding.

Difficulty Swallowing Tablets

Colestid tablets are large and may be difficult for some people to swallow.

Take each tablet one at a time with plenty of liquid. Tell your healthcare provider if you have difficulty swallowing or have a history of swallowing problems.

High Triglyceride Levels

Colestid mainly lowers LDL cholesterol and does not usually lower triglycerides. In some people, triglyceride levels may increase during treatment.

Your healthcare provider may check your triglyceride levels before and during treatment to make sure Colestid remains appropriate for you.

Kidney or Liver Problems

Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney or liver disease before starting Colestid.

Your overall medical history and laboratory results may need to be considered when deciding whether this treatment is appropriate.

Take Other Medicines at a Different Time

Because Colestid can reduce the absorption of other oral medicines, timing may be important.

Unless your healthcare provider gives you different instructions, other oral medications are generally taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after Colestid.

Important Treatment Reminder

Use Colestid exactly as prescribed and tell your healthcare provider about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop severe constipation, trouble swallowing, unusual bleeding, or other concerning symptoms during treatment.

Can Colestid tablets be cut in half?

No. Colestid tablets should be swallowed whole. Do not cut, crush, or chew the tablets. Take each tablet one at a time with plenty of water or another liquid. If you have trouble swallowing Colestid tablets, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about other options.

Can I stop taking Colestid?

Do not stop taking Colestid without first talking to your healthcare provider. Colestid helps control high cholesterol while you are taking it. If you stop treatment, your cholesterol levels may rise again. Your healthcare provider can tell you whether you should continue treatment or make changes to your cholesterol-lowering plan.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Colestid?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra Colestid to make up for a missed dose.

What should I avoid while taking Colestid?

Colestid can reduce the absorption of certain oral medicines, which may make them less effective. Unless your healthcare provider gives you different instructions, take other oral medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after Colestid. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you take so they can help you plan the correct dosing schedule.

REVIEWS

Additional Information Book
Generic name:

Colestipol

Formulation:

Tablet

Strength(s):

1g

Quantities Available:

120, 240

Why customers love Online Pharmacies Canada

Our online Canadian Pharmacy is known for high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency when it comes to medications.

Our pharmacy offers lower prices on prescription drugs compared to traditional pharmacies.

How to Order

How much Colestid can I order at once from a Canadian pharmacy?

When ordering Colestid (colestipol) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time. This practice is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of chronic conditions without the need for frequent refills.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dosage and Quantity: Colestid is commonly prescribed in dosages of 1 gram (1 tablet), taken 2 to 4 times per day. For a 90-day supply, this means you could order up to 360 tablets (90 days x 4 tablets per day).

Do you sell colestipol?

No, we don’t sell colestipol directly on our website, but you can still enjoy low prices on Colestid, which contains colestipol as an active ingredient. However, to purchase Colestid, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. We require this to dispense the medication safely and appropriately. You can provide your prescription by mailing, faxing, or uploading it through your online account.

Do you offer shipping of Colestid (colestipol) to the United States?

Yes, we ship Colestid (colestipol) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.

Discover Our Users' Stories!

Watch how Online Pharmacies Canada is helping customers save money on their medications.

Online Pharmacies Canada Customer Testimonial #4
Online Pharmacies Canada Customer Testimonial #1
Online Pharmacies Canada - Customer Testimonial #2

Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Colestid (Colestipol). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Colestid (Colestipol).