Colestid

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > C



How does it work?

Colestipol hydrochloride is not absorbed into the blood stream, but acts in the intestine, where it absorbs bile acids. Bile is a substance which is produced by the liver and released into the intestines. Bile contains chemicals called bile acids, which the liver makes from cholesterol in the blood. Bile acids aid digestion of fats consumed in the diet. Normally these bile acids are reabsorbed from the intestine into the bloodstream following digestion. Colestipol prevents this reabsorption of bile acids into the bloodstream by combining with them in the intestine, allowing them to be excreted in the faeces. Hence, the levels of bile acids in the blood are reduced. This triggers the liver to produce more bile acids from cholesterol in the blood, therefore reducing the levels of cholesterol in the blood. High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, and reducing its level reduces the risk of a heart attack. Thus colestipol is given to individuals with increased levels of cholesterol in the blood. Though cholesterol levels are reduced, colestipol does not correct the underlying cause of raised cholesterol levels. Therefore it is necessary to continue with diet and the medicine indefinitely. Stopping treatment usually leads to a return to high cholesterol levels.

What is it used for?

- In combination with dietary measures, to treat high blood cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolaemia) not responsive to diet alone

Warning!

- This medicine may interfere with the absorption of fat soluble vitamins such as A, D and K from the gut. Supplements of these vitamins may be required during prolonged high dose treatment. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- This medicine should not be taken in its dry form. Mix with water before taking.

Use with caution in

- A syndrome caused by kidney inflammation, characterised by a large amount of protein in the urine, swelling, weight gain and high blood pressure (nephrotic syndrome)
- Abnormality in plasma proteins, usually in immunoglobulins (dysproteinaemia)
- Children
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypothyroidism
- Obstructive liver disease
- People over 65 years of age
- Significant rise in blood triglycerides during treatment

Not to be used in

- Previous hypersensitivity to use of this medicine