Colestipol Hydrochloride
Colestipol Hydrochloride is a bile acid sequestrant medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly LDL (bad) cholesterol. It is typically prescribed alongside diet modifications and sometimes with other cholesterol-lowering medications for patients with hypercholesterolemia or those at risk for cardiovascular disease.
Colestipol is a cholesterol-lowering medication that works by binding bile acids in the intestine to help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 104485
- Generic
- Colestipol Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Colestid
- 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.
Primarily used for the treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated cholesterol) to reduce LDL cholesterol levels. May be used alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering agents such as statins. Sometimes prescribed for patients with hypercholesterolemia who have not responded adequately to diet and exercise alone.
Colestipol is a non-absorbed anion exchange resin that binds to bile acids in the intestinal lumen, forming a complex that is excreted in the feces. This prevents the normal reabsorption of bile acids, causing the liver to increase conversion of cholesterol to bile acids. This depletes hepatic cholesterol stores, leading to increased uptake of LDL from the blood and reduced serum LDL cholesterol levels.
Should be taken with meals for optimal efficacy. May interfere with absorption of other medications (take other drugs at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after colestipol). Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, bloating, and flatulence. May elevate triglycerides in some patients. Adequate fluid intake is recommended. Regular monitoring of lipid 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 August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy