Brand name:
WelChol
Pronounced: WELL-call
Generic name:
Colesevelam
Why is WelChol prescribed?
WelChol is used to lower blood cholesterol levels when diet and
exercise prove insufficient. It works by binding with
cholesterol-based bile acids to take them out of circulation. This
prompts the liver to produce a replacement supply of bile acids,
drawing the extra cholesterol it needs out of the bloodstream.
WelChol is sometimes prescribed along with one of the popular
"statin" drugs that fight cholesterol in a different way. Among
these drugs are Lescol, Lipitor, Mevacor, Pravachol, and Zocor.
Most important fact about WelChol
WelChol is usually added to a treatment regimen only when other
measures have failed to produce adequate results. Often, diet and
exercise are enough to bring cholesterol levels under control.
Likewise, it's sometimes sufficient to simply treat an underlying
problem such as diabetes, underactive thyroid, kidney disease, a
liver disorder, or alcoholism.
Whatever your other treatment measures may be, it's important to
remember that WelChol is intended to supplement them, rather than
replace them outright. To get the full benefit of WelChol,
you need to stick to the diet, exercise program, and other
treatments your doctor prescribes. All these efforts to keep your
cholesterol levels normal are important because together they may
lower your risk of heart disease.
How should you take WelChol?
WelChol should be taken at mealtime with a liquid.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature and protect from moisture.
WelChol side effects
WelChol is not absorbed by the body, so it is relatively free of
side effects. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your
doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is
safe for you to continue taking WelChol.
- Side effects may include:
Constipation,
indigestion,
muscle aches,
sore throat,
weakness
Why should WelChol not be prescribed?
You should not take WelChol if you have a bowel obstruction or
the product gives you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about WelChol
If you have difficulty swallowing or suffer from severe digestive
problems, use WelChol with caution; it hasn't been tested under
these conditions. The drug has also not been studied in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking WelChol
No significant interactions are known.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
There is no evidence that WelChol causes harm during pregnancy.
Nevertheless, be sure to let the doctor know if you are pregnant,
plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. There is a
possibility that WelChol could interfere with the absorption of
needed vitamins.
Recommended dosage for WelChol
ADULTS
Overdosage
Since WelChol is not absorbed by the body, the chances of serious
toxicity are low. Still, if you suspect an overdose, call your
doctor immediately.
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