Description
Generic Name: colesevelam hydrochloride
Drug Class: bile acid sequestrant
Indications
Welchol is an oral prescription drug used to lower elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol among adults with hyperlipidemia. This is also prescribed for boys and postmenarchal girls with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Additionally, it is indicated to improve glycemic control among adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Welchol 625 mg tablet.
Welchol Mechanism of Action
This non-absorbed, lipid-lowering agent binds bile acids in the intestine in order to hinder reabsorption. It also increases the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids which increases the demand for cholesterol in the liver. As a result, transcription and activity of HMG-CoA reductase are increased, as well as the LDL hepatic receptors. On the other hand, its mechanism for lowering high blood sugar is unknown.
How to Take Welchol
Before starting to take Welchol, it is necessary to read the drug information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. Unless you understand how to use and where to take the medication, you should not take it. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you require any further information.
This tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth. This is usually prescribed once or twice a day. You may take it with a meal. Swallow the tablet and drink fluids right after.
Make a dosing schedule. If you are prescribed levothyroxine, cyclosporin, phenytoin, glimepiride, glipizide, glyburide, norethindrone, or estradiol, take them 4 hours before taking Welchol. Do not increase or decrease your Welchol dosage. You should not take this oral medication more frequently than recommended.
This oral medication is only an adjunct to proper diet and regular exercise. It may not work as well if lifestyle changes are not applied. Always eat a healthy balanced meal and do exercise regularly.
Welchol Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Stomach upset
-Constipation
-Flatulence
-Indigestion
-Headache
Severe Side Effects:
-Nausea and vomiting
-Severe abdominal pain
-Unusual bleeding and bruising
-Trouble swallowing
-Low blood sugar
-High blood sugar
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Crestor.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take the Welchol tablet if you have a known allergy to colesevelam or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Watch out for any signs of severe allergic reactions, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives, and skin rashes. This oral medication should be stopped immediately and emergency medical care sought if this occurs.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of high triglyceride levels, pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas, gastrointestinal disorders, hemorrhoids, and recent GI surgery. Also, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Colesevelam can interfere with the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K if used for a long period of time. Your physician may ask you to take multivitamin supplements. Make sure to take your supplement 4 hours before administering this drug.
Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must take this oral drug only if extremely necessary. It is necessary to discuss all the possible risks with a healthcare provider.
How much does Welchol cost?
The cost of Welchol may vary depending on your dosage. You may check the list of prices on this page. To get the best deals, purchase it from Pharma Passport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Welchol used for?
Welchol (colesevelam) is used to lower cholesterol in the blood. It is also used by patients with type 2 diabetes to improve glycemic control.
Is Welchol a statin drug?
This medication helps lower bad cholesterol, but it works differently from statins. This medication is known as a bile acid sequestrant.
What is the best time of the day to take Welchol?
There is no specific time to take this oral drug. You may take it any time, provided that you follow a dosing schedule.
Does Welchol lower cholesterol?
Based on clinical trials on Welchol & cholesterol, this medication can effectively help lower LDL-C. This can be used as monotherapy or in combination with statins.
Can I use Welchol for diarrhea?
Technically, this drug is not indicated for diarrhea. However, it is sometimes used off-label to manage diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Is Welchol over the counter?
This product is a prescription medication. When purchasing this medicine from any drugstore, you must have a valid prescription.