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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking colestipol?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to colestipol, or if you have a blockage in your intestines.

Before taking colestipol, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• trouble swallowing;

• constipation or hemorrhoids;

• a stomach, intestinal, or digestive disorder;

• liver disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• a bleeding disorder;

• a history of major stomach or bowel surgery; or

• if you have a vitamin A, D, E, or K deficiency.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take colestipol.

This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Taking colestipol can make it harder for your body to absorb certain vitamins. These vitamins are important if you are nursing a baby. Do not take colestipol without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Some forms of this medication may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using colestipol if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

How should I take colestipol?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Colestipol is usually taken 1 or 2 times per day with meals. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Dissolve the colestipol granules in a small amount of water, broth soup, applesauce, crushed pineapple, or hot or cold cereal. Stir this mixture and drink or eat all of it right away. Swallow the mixture without chewing or holding it in your mouth. Colestipol can damage your teeth if left in contact with them for too long.

If you mix colestipol granules with a liquid, after drinking the mixture add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away. This will assure that you get the entire dose.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with colestipol. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

It may take 2 weeks to several months of using this medicine before your cholesterol levels improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed.

Colestipol is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Store colestipol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.