Welchol (Colesevelam)

What is Welchol?

Welchol is a cholesterol-lowering agent. It belongs to a particular class of drugs known as bile acid-binding resins. Bile acid is a natural substance that is produced by the liver by using cholesterol.

What is Welchol used for?

Welchol is used to reduce the amount of blood cholesterol in patients with high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Controlled cholesterol helps reduce the risk of heart diseases (strokes and heart attacks).

The medicine also lowers blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes). Controlled sugar levels further helps prevent nerve problems, kidney damage, loss of limbs, blindness, and problems related to sexual function. However, it is to be noted that Welchol does not treat type1 (insulin dependent) diabetes. This medicine is not to be taken by patients who are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis.

How does Welchol work?

Welchol works by removing bile acid from the body. This makes the liver produce more bile acid by using cholesterol, thereby lowering cholesterol levels in the blood.

How to use Welchol

The medicine should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Do not take it for longer duration or in larger amount than recommended.

Welchol is usually taken once or twice daily, with a full glass of water or any other liquid. The dosage varies from person to person.

If you are using the powder form of the medicine, pour the medicine into a glass and add one-half to one cup of water. Stir well and drink it right away. Remember not to take the powder without mixing it in water.

It is advisable that you take the medicine at the same time each day. Following a good diet and exercise schedule is essential.

Welchol warnings and precautions

Before taking Welchol, be sure that you are not allergic to colesevelam. Do not take the medicine if you have a bowel obstruction or ever had pancreatitis, caused by triglycerides.

Prior to taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you are suffering from swallowing troubles; intestinal, stomach or digestive disorder; history of stomach problems or bowel surgery; deficiency of Vitamin A, D, E, or K.

Person taking Welchol should also avoid foods that have high cholesterol content.

Pregnant and lactating women should seek advice from their doctors, before taking this medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Welchol dose?

If you have missed your Welchol dose you can take the missed dose anytime but not immediately before the next scheduled dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Welchol overdose?

An overdose of Welchol does not produce serious consequences. However, if you have taken a Welchol overdose you should seek medical attention.

Welchol interactions

Adhere to the instructions of the doctor or pharmacist. Also, monitor your consumption. This can help avoid any possible drug interactions. Starting, stopping or changing the dosage before consulting a doctor can cause serious ailments. Welchol should not be taken with some medicines because the interaction can lead to serious consequences. These medications include phenytoin (Dilantin), thyroid hormone replacement, birth control medications, glyburide (Micronase, DiaBeta, Glucovance, Glynase Presab), or blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin).

Welchol side effects

There are some minor side effects of Welchol. These include mild nausea, constipation, stomach pain, upset stomach, indigestion, gas, fatigue, muscle weakness, sore throat, or runny nose.

Welchol side effects also include hives, breathing trouble and swelling on lips, tongue, face or throat. Stop using this medication and contact your doctor if such symptoms persist.