Colestid (Colestid HCL)

Colestid Granule (Colestid Hydrochloride) is used to reduce the amount of cholesterol that the body absorbs from the bowel. This drug acts in the bowel and helps to increase the amount of bile acids being excreted in the patient`s stools. As a response to this, the liver produces more bile acids using the cholesterol in the bloodstream and the overall result of this is that the blood cholesterol levels are reduced, which helps to lower the risk of the serious health problems that are associated with high levels of cholesterol. Dietary changes and weight loss may also be required.

Dosage and AdministrationIf your physician has told you to use Colestid Granule (Colestid Hydrochloride) for lowering cholesterol, specific dosage instructions which are unique to you will be provided. These granules need to be mixed in with a sufficient quantity of water (at least 100ml), however, if the patient prefers, it may also be taken with non-carbonated beverages, skimmed milk, soup, tomato juice, or cereal.

Each of these sachets contains 5mg of the active ingredient. Your physician will decide how much sachets you need to take, and when each dose should be administered. In the majority of cases, physicians tell their patients to start out with 1 to 2 sachets per day. The dosage may be adjusted by the physician based on your cholesterol levels and other factors, however, patients must never change their dosage unless following their physician`s instructions.

Side effectsUse of Colestid Granule (Colestid Hydrochloride) in the management of cholesterol levels may contribute to some side effects, including:

• Nausea
• Belching
• Flatulence
• Constipation
• Discomfort affecting the abdomen

Ensure that your physician is notified of any persistent side effects. This medicine has been associated with serious side effects, however, the occurrence of this is less common. Patients will require immediate hospitalization or medical treatment if they notice muscular aches, weakness, severe headaches and any other serious reactions that have not been mentioned here.

PrecautionsThese granules must never be taken dry. They may only be taken if mixed with a suitable liquid. Your physician will be able to tell you which liquids are suitable for mixing the medicine with.

Treatment with this medication may affect the way fat soluble vitamins (including vitamin A, D, E and K) are absorbed, and some patients may be told by their physician to take vitamin supplements.