Colestipol
Bile Acid Sequestrants
- Drug class
- Bile Acid Sequestrants
- Availability
- Prescription only
- Routes
- Oral
- Markets covered
- 1
- Products on record
- 2
Overview
Plain-language summary, compiled from the cited regulatory records
Colestipol is a medication belonging to the drug class of bile acid sequestrants [1]. It is approved for use as a dietary supplement to help lower high levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in individuals with primary hypercholesterolemia [1]. This means it is intended for patients whose elevated LDL cholesterol does not sufficiently improve with diet alone [1].
Colestipol hydrochloride tablets are available under various brand names [1]. The medication works by binding to bile acids in the intestine, which then facilitates their excretion from the body [1]. This process can lead to a reduction in serum cholesterol levels [1].
This active ingredient is part of a broader category of drugs known as bile acid sequestrants, identified by the code C10AC [1].
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Regulator | Products | Last revision |
|---|---|---|---|
| US United States | FDA | 2 | October 1, 2025 |
USUnited States· FDA
2 products
Uses
INDICATIONS & USAGE
Since no drug is innocuous, strict attention should be paid to the indications and contraindications, particularly when selecting drugs for chronic long-term use. Colestipol hydrochloride tablets are indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of elevated serum total and LDL-C in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated LDL-C) who do not respond adequately to diet.
Generally, colestipol hydrochloride tablets have no clinically significant effect on serum triglycerides, but with their use, triglyceride levels may be raised in some patients. Therapy with lipid-altering agents should be a component of multiple risk factor intervention in those individuals at significantly increased risk for atherosclerotic vascular disease due to hypercholesterolemia.
Treatment should begin and continue with dietary therapy (see NCEP guidelines). A minimum of six months of intensive dietary therapy and counseling should be carried out prior to initiation of drug therapy. Shorter periods may be considered in patients with severe elevations of LDL-C or with definite CHD.
Drug interactions
Known interactions involving Colestipol. Select one for details. This list is informational and not a complete interaction checker.
Interaction data compiled from DDInter (academic, CC-BY). Severity classification only - this is not a complete interaction checker and not medical advice.
Sources & citations
- [1]FDA DailyMed · 03ca5800-4211-43… · revised May 27, 2025 [PDF]
Information on this page is compiled from public regulatory records. Drugvu is not affiliated with any regulator or pharmaceutical manufacturer. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.