Welchol is called Cholestagel in Europe.
Information about Welchol (Colesevelam)
Welchol (colesevelam) is a prescription medication used primarily to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs known as bile acid sequestrants. Welchol works by binding to bile acids in the digestive system, preventing them from being reabsorbed. This prompts the liver to use cholesterol to make more bile acids, thus reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. Welchol is also approved for use in managing type 2 diabetes, as it can help lower blood sugar levels.
Product Highlights
- It is primarily used to reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol in adults and children aged 10 years and older.
- Welchol can be used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes, when combined with diet and exercise.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Welchol is effective at reducing LDL cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- It can help lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
- By lowering LDL cholesterol, Welchol helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.
- Many patients find Welchol easier to take and tolerate than other cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins.
Direction of Use
- The usual dose of Welchol for lowering cholesterol is 3.75 grams per day, which is typically divided into either one dose or two doses.
- Welchol tablets should be taken with food and a liquid, typically in a dose of 1 to 3 tablets with meals.
- It’s important to take Welchol regularly as prescribed, and doses should be taken with food for best absorption.
Safety Concerns
- The most common side effects of Welchol are gastrointestinal (GI) issues, such as constipation, bloating, and stomach discomfort.
- Welchol can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, such as fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and other drugs like statins, blood thinners, and certain oral contraceptives. It’s important to take these medications at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after Welchol.
- In rare cases, Welchol may cause or worsen liver problems.
- Patients with high triglycerides should use Welchol with caution, as it may raise triglyceride levels in some individuals.
Avoid Welchol (Colesevelam) If
- You have a history of bowel obstructions or other serious gastrointestinal issues (e.g., ileus, severe constipation).
- You are allergic to colesevelam or any of the ingredients in Welchol.
- You have severe hypertriglyceridemia (high levels of triglycerides), as Welchol may increase triglyceride levels in some people.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is unclear whether Welchol is safe for use during pregnancy or lactation. Always consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- You are taking medications that are known to interact with Welchol (e.g., certain blood thinners, anti-seizure drugs, or oral contraceptives), as it may interfere with their absorption.
