Lowers cholesterol levels in the blood in combination with a diet and exercise program. May be used with other medicines
Brand Names:
Welchol
Contraindications:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to colesevelam or if you have a bowel obstruction
Uses:
Tablet
Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
Take this medicine with a meal. Drink some kind of liquid (water, milk, juice) when you swallow the tablet.
If a dose is missed:
Use your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
Do not use two doses at the same time.
Storage:
Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.
Special precautions:
Before taking, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking, call your doctor
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using verapamil (Calan SR®).
Warnings:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have trouble swallowing, if you have ongoing problems with constipation or digestion, or if you have a history of vitamin deficiency or poor nutrition. Also tell your doctor if you have had surgery on your digestive system (stomach or intestines).
Your doctor may want to measure the cholesterol levels in your blood on a regular basis to make sure this medicine is working properly. Be sure to keep all of your appointments.
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly are important in lowering your cholesterol level and keeping it low. This medicine will help to control your cholesterol levels, but it does not replace good eating habits and regular exercise.
