Colesevelam oral suspension

What is this medicine?

COLESEVELAM (koh le SEV e lam) is used to lower cholesterol in children and adults. It is also used to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. This medicine should be used in combination with diet and exercise

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is mixed in water and taken by mouth. DO NOT take this medicine in the dry form. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Empty the granules into a glass and add 4 to 8 ounces of water, fruit juice, or diet soda. Stir well and drink. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 10 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• bloody or black, tarry stools

• breathing problems

• muscle pain

• nausea, vomiting

• severe stomach pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• heartburn or indigestion

• stomach upset

What may interact with this medicine?

• birth control pills

• cyclosporine

• insulin

• medicines for diabetes like glimepiride, glipizide, and glyburide

• medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin

• metformin

• olmesartan

• thyroid hormones

• verapamil

• vitamins

• warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can with your next meal. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• constipation or bowel obstruction

• high triglyceride levels

• history of pancreatitis caused by high triglyceride levels

• phenylketonuria

• an unusual or allergic reaction to colesevelam, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your blood sugar and other tests will be measured regularly.

This medicine is only part of a total cholesterol or blood sugar-lowering program. Your health care professional or dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet that will reduce your risk of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.

To reduce the chance of getting constipated, drink plenty of water and increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice if you are constipated.

If you are taking this medicine for diabetes, wear a medical ID bracelet or chain, and carry a card that describes your disease and details of your medicine and dosage times.