Colestipol (Colestid)
Colestipol is a bile-acid sequestrant available as tablets and granules. In a placebo-controlled trial, colestipol tablets lowered LDL cholesterol by 12% at 4 g daily and 24% at 16 g daily versus placebo. Study results
How much does colestipol lower LDL cholesterol?
Colestipol tablets lowered LDL cholesterol by 12% at 4 g daily and 24% at 16 g daily compared with placebo in a dose-ranging trial. Read the evidence.
| Dose and treatment context | LDL result |
|---|---|
| 4 g tablets daily | 12% vs. placebo |
| 16 g tablets daily | 24% vs. placebo |
Tablet and granule regimens have been studied separately. The dose burden and gastrointestinal tolerance can limit the usable dose.
Individual responses vary. LDL and ApoB measure different things; these LDL percentages should not be used as ApoB estimates. Compare ApoB-lowering treatments.
How is colestipol taken?
Colestipol tablets are started at a low dose and increased gradually; the labeled tablet range is 2–16 g daily. Swallow tablets one at a time with plenty of liquid. Granules must be mixed before use and have separate dosing instructions. Prescribing information.
How does colestipol compare with other medications?
Like Cholestyramine, colestipol is not absorbed and can interfere with absorption of other medicines. Colesevelam is another option in the same class; Ezetimibe usually has a lower pill burden.
Which medications can be combined with colestipol?
Colestipol can be combined with a statin. Take other oral medicines at least one hour before or four hours after colestipol. A pharmacist can help construct a workable schedule when several daily medicines are involved.
How much does colestipol cost?
Cost Plus Drugs lists colestipol 1gm, 30 tablets, at $16.67 before shipping ($21.92 with standard shipping). Prices were checked October 6, 2026; the quantity is not necessarily a month’s supply.
Cost Plus Drugs
Colestipol 1gm, 30 tablets: $16.67 including the dispensing fee, or $21.92 with standard shipping.
GoodRx
Compare local coupon prices for the same 1gm strength and 30 tablets. The pharmacy, ZIP code, and coupon can change the price; this is a live comparison, not a second fixed quote.
Compare the cash price with your plan’s out-of-pocket quote for the same strength and quantity. Coupon purchases may not count toward your insurance deductible.
Does insurance cover colestipol?
Coverage for colestipol varies by plan and formulation. These named formularies and medical policies were checked October 6, 2026; your plan’s rules and cost sharing may differ.
| Insurer | Coverage policy |
|---|---|
| UnitedHealthcare | Tablets are Tier 1, with no prior authorization, step therapy, or quantity limit listed. Commercial PDL, September 2026. |
| Aetna | Aetna lists colestipol as a preferred generic for the listed tablets and granules. Advanced Control, October 2026. |
| Cigna | Cigna lists generic colestipol at Tier 1, with possible home delivery and no prior authorization, step therapy, or quantity limit listed. California Standard 4-Tier (DMHC), July 2026. |
| Anthem | No listing for colestipol was located in this named pharmacy formulary. This does not establish a denial; ask the plan about its current drug list, exceptions, and medical-benefit coverage. California Individual Select, October 2026. |
| Blue Shield of California | Tablets and granules are Tier 1. Standard Formulary. |
| BCBS of Texas | BCBS of Texas lists colestipol as a nonpreferred generic, with no prior-authorization, step-therapy, or quantity-limit marker listed. Performance Annual, 2026. |
What are the side effects of colestipol?
Constipation is the main tolerability issue; bloating and abdominal discomfort can also occur. Large tablets can cause swallowing problems. Triglycerides can rise, and prolonged use may affect absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Full safety information.
Does colestipol reduce heart attacks or strokes?
The dose-ranging trial cited here measured LDL cholesterol. Its percentages do not describe a demonstrated reduction in heart attacks or strokes. Treatment choice should also account for cardiovascular outcome evidence from other options. Read the supporting evidence.
Is colestipol right for you?
Empirical helps connect your lab results, cardiovascular risk, and treatment options.
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