Colestipol
Colestipol is a bile acid sequestrant medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by binding to bile acids in the intestines, preventing their reabsorption and forcing the liver to use more cholesterol to produce new bile acids. This medication is typically prescribed alongside diet and exercise for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia.
Colestipol is a cholesterol-lowering medication that works by binding bile acids in the gut to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C10AC02
- RxNorm
- 2685
- Generic
- Colestipol
- Class
- atc-c10
- Brands
- Colestid
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, suspension
- 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.
Colestipol is primarily used to treat primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated cholesterol) when diet and lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient. It is particularly effective at lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
As a bile acid sequestrant, Colestipol binds to bile acids in the intestinal tract, forming a complex that is excreted in the feces. This prevents bile acids from being reabsorbed into circulation, prompting the liver to convert more cholesterol into bile acids, thereby reducing overall blood cholesterol levels.
Colestipol may interfere with absorption of other medications, so it should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after other drugs. Common side effects include constipation and gastrointestinal discomfort. Regular cholesterol monitoring is recommended during treatment. It may also affect fat-soluble vitamin absorption with long-term use.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy