Colestid is taken to lower high level of cholesterol in your blood. It comes in either a tablet or plain and orange flavored granules. The generic form of Colestid is colestipol hydrochloride. If you choose to take the granule form of Colestid, be sure to mix it with water or another form of liquid. Serious effects may occur if you inhale it. If you inhale Colestid consult your doctor immediately.
Never take Colestid without mixing it with liquids. Suggested forms of liquid to mix it with include milk, tomato juice, water, orange juice, pineapple juice or flavored beverages. You can also mix it with liquid soups such as broths, noodle soups that have plenty of broth in them, or tomato soup.

If you prefer to take Colestid in tablet form, be sure to swallow it whole. Do not cut, crush or chew the tablet. Be certain to drink plenty of liquids when taking the tablets. If you forget to take your dosage one day take it as soon as you remember. If you remember to take it shortly before it is time for your next scheduled dose then skip the one you forgot. Never double up on your doses.

Side effects may occur. The most common side effects are constipation or hemorrhoids. Other side effects may include dizziness, indigestion, loss of appetite, fatigue, gas, headaches, chest pain or shortness of breath.

Before prescribing Colestid, your doctor test you to make sure that it is, indeed, the medication you need for your high cholesterol. Diseases that will be tested for are an underactive thyroid gland, kidney disease, diabetes, blood diseases, and obstructive liver disease. If you drink an overly high amount of alcohol, be sure to let your physician know. Once you are prescribed Colestid your doctor will put you on a diet plan that stresses low cholesterol foods.

Although there have been no adequate studies on the effect of Colestid and pregnancy, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor first to let him know that you are pregnant or you are trying to conceive. It is best to not breastfeed and be on Colestid since it interferes with vitamins A, D and K.

Store both the granules and tablets at room temperature.

Colestid is recommended for adults. Results for children have not yet been determined.