Colestipol
Colestid (colestipol) is a bile acid sequestrant medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It is prescribed as an adjunct to diet and exercise for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia to reduce elevated LDL cholesterol when diet alone is insufficient.
Colestid is a cholesterol-lowering medication that binds bile acids in the intestines to help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 151533
- Generic
- Colestid
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Colestid is used to treat primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated blood cholesterol) in patients who have not responded adequately to dietary changes, exercise, and weight loss. It may be used alone or in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications such as statins.
Colestid is a bile acid sequestrant that works by binding to bile acids in the intestine, forming a complex that is excreted in the feces. This prevents bile acids from being reabsorbed, causing the liver to use more cholesterol to synthesize new bile acids, thereby reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Colestid may decrease absorption of other medications, so other drugs should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after Colestid. Common side effects include constipation, bloating, and gas. It is generally not recommended for patients with complete biliary obstruction. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels and liver function may be required during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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