What is Welchol?
Welchol reduces the "bad" cholesterol, also known as LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol can reduce the risk of hardened blood vessels, which may lead to stroke and circulation problems.Welchol can be used to treat high cholesterol among adults and children over 10 years of age.
Welchol can be used in conjunction with other "statin" cholesterol medications, such as Crestor, Lipitor, and Pravachol.
Welchol can also be used to control blood sugar in adults who have type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. This medication does not treat type 1 diabetes.Welchol can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Welchol
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
Welchol can cause serious side effects. Welchol should be stopped immediately, and you should consult your doctor if:
- Constipation is severe.
- Severe stomach pain;
- Pancreatitis: severe pain spreading from your upper stomach to your back. Nausea.
Welchol side effects may include:
- Constipation;
- Nausea;
- Upset stomach.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Ozempic, Mounjaro, atorvastatin, metformin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin, and ezetimibe
Warnings
Welchol should not be taken if you suffer from diabetic ketoacidosis or very high triglycerides. You also shouldn't take it if there is a history of bowel obstruction or pancreatitis due to high triglycerides.
Before you take this drug
Welchol should not be taken if:
- High levels of triglycerides in your blood (a type of fat);
- Diabetic ketoacidosis: Call your doctor to get treated.
- A history of bowel obstruction
- A history of pancreatitis due to high triglycerides
Welchol can cause an increase in triglycerides, which may increase the risk of pancreatitis. You will be tested by your doctor to ensure that the triglycerides in your blood are not too high to use this medication safely.Welchol should not be used by girls who are not yet menstruating.Welchol is not recommended for children younger than 10 years of age.
Inform your physician if any of the following apply to you:
- Trouble swallowing
- Blockage of the digestive tract (stomach, intestines);
- Slow digestion;
- Surgery on the stomach or intestines
- Vitamin D, E, or K deficiency.
Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.Colesevelam powder may contain phenylalanine. Inform your doctor if phenylketonuria is present.
How to take Welchol?
Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label.Welchol should be taken with food and a glass of water.It is possible that you will have to take multiple tablets each time, Welchol. If you are having trouble swallowing a tablet, tell your doctor.
Welchol powder should be mixed with eight ounces of either water, fruit juice, or diet soft drinks. Mix the powder with 8 ounces of water, fruit juice, or a diet soft drink. Pour a little water into the glass and swirl it gently. Drink immediately.
You should not alter the dosage or timing of any other cholesterol or diabetes medications unless your doctor has advised you to do so.You will require frequent blood tests.
Welchol may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and weight management. It may be necessary to adhere to a special diet while taking this medication to avoid constipation. Please follow all directions from your doctor or dietitian.Store away from direct heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and wait to take your next medication at its scheduled time. Never take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Welchol is less effective if you eat foods that are high in cholesterol or fat.
Interaction with other drug
Welchol may make other medications less effective. Take any of these medicines 4 hours before taking this medicine.
