Colesevelam is a drug that has been approved for the treatment of hyperlipidemia since 2000. It was approved by the FDA for use in type 2 diabetes in 2008.

colesevelam

• Brand name in US: Welchol®
• Class: bile acid sequestrant
• For: Type 2 diabetes. Should be used in combination with other diabetes medications such as metformin or a sulfonylurea or insulin. (Welchol has not been studied in type 2 diabetes as monotherapy.)
• Route of Administration: oral. Recommended dose is 6 tablets once daily or 3 tablets twice daily, taken with a meal and liquid.
• Action: "The mechanism by which WELCHOL improves glycemic control is unknown." (from the approved label, see below).
• Manufacturer: Daiichi Sankyo
• Status: Approved in USA for treatment of type 2 diabetes in 2008
• Source: Welchol prescribing information; press release from manufacturer (see below).
• Side effects: Constipation, dyspepsia, and nausea
• Other approved drugs in the same class: none