Healthwise

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Colesevelam Oral Tablet (COLESEVELAM - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • diabetes
  • high blood fat levels

Brand Name(s): Welchol

Generic Name: Colesevelam

Instructions

Take the medicine with a meal and some liquid.

After taking other medicines, wait at least 4 hours before taking this medicine.

If you are also taking cyclosporine, take this medicine 4 hours after the cyclosporine.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

To reduce constipation, eat high fiber foods, drink plenty of water and exercise.

This medicine can reduce the absorption of other medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best times to use this product.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it with your next meal. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Do NOT take two doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine usually does not cause low blood sugar levels if you eat regular meals.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than twice during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation
  • nausea
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe stomach pain that spreads to the back
  • difficulty swallowing
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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