Colesevelam
Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant used to treat high cholesterol (primary hyperlipidemia) and type 2 diabetes. It works in the intestines by binding to bile acids, preventing their reabsorption and forcing the liver to use more cholesterol to produce new bile acids, thereby lowering LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
A non-absorbed polymer that lowers cholesterol by binding bile acids in the gut.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C10AC04
- RxNorm
- 141626
- Generic
- Colesevelam
- Class
- atc-c10
- Brands
- Welchol
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- suspension, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primary hyperlipidemia (high LDL cholesterol), often used as add-on therapy when statins alone are insufficient, and as adjunct treatment for type 2 diabetes to improve glycemic control.
Colesevelam is a non-absorbed, high-capacity bile acid-binding polymer. By sequestering bile acids in the intestinal lumen, it prevents their reabsorption, depleting the bile acid pool. This triggers the liver to upregulate cholesterol 7-alpha hydroxylase, converting more hepatic cholesterol to bile acids, which reduces serum LDL cholesterol levels.
Not systemically absorbed, so minimal systemic side effects. Common GI effects include constipation and bloating. Can decrease absorption of other oral medications (separate dosing by 4 hours for most drugs, 6 hours for thyroid medications). May increase triglycerides in some patients. Generally used in combination with statins or other lipid-lowering agents for optimal cholesterol control.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy