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Colesevelam Cholestagel

Genzyme, a Sanofi Company · Phase 2 active Small molecule

Colesevelam Cholestagel is a Bile acid sequestrant Small molecule drug developed by Genzyme, a Sanofi Company. It is currently in Phase 2 development for Hypercholesterolemia (approved), Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Phase 2 development).

Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant that binds bile acids in the intestine to prevent their reabsorption, thereby lowering LDL cholesterol and improving glycemic control.

Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant that binds bile acids in the intestine to prevent their reabsorption, thereby lowering LDL cholesterol and improving glycemic control. Used for Hypercholesterolemia (approved), Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Phase 2 development).

At a glance

Generic nameColesevelam Cholestagel
SponsorGenzyme, a Sanofi Company
Drug classBile acid sequestrant
TargetBile acids (non-selective binding)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaCardiovascular, Endocrinology
PhasePhase 2

Mechanism of action

Colesevelam binds bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing their enterohepatic circulation and promoting fecal excretion. This forces the liver to synthesize new bile acids from cholesterol stores, reducing serum LDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, the drug appears to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce postprandial glucose levels through mechanisms that may involve altered gut hormone signaling and improved GLP-1 secretion.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about Colesevelam Cholestagel

What is Colesevelam Cholestagel?

Colesevelam Cholestagel is a Bile acid sequestrant drug developed by Genzyme, a Sanofi Company, indicated for Hypercholesterolemia (approved), Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Phase 2 development).

How does Colesevelam Cholestagel work?

Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant that binds bile acids in the intestine to prevent their reabsorption, thereby lowering LDL cholesterol and improving glycemic control.

What is Colesevelam Cholestagel used for?

Colesevelam Cholestagel is indicated for Hypercholesterolemia (approved), Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Phase 2 development).

Who makes Colesevelam Cholestagel?

Colesevelam Cholestagel is developed by Genzyme, a Sanofi Company (see full Genzyme, a Sanofi Company pipeline at /company/genzyme-a-sanofi-company).

What drug class is Colesevelam Cholestagel in?

Colesevelam Cholestagel belongs to the Bile acid sequestrant class. See all Bile acid sequestrant drugs at /class/bile-acid-sequestrant.

What development phase is Colesevelam Cholestagel in?

Colesevelam Cholestagel is in Phase 2.

What are the side effects of Colesevelam Cholestagel?

Common side effects of Colesevelam Cholestagel include Constipation, Dyspepsia, Nausea, Abdominal pain.

What does Colesevelam Cholestagel target?

Colesevelam Cholestagel targets Bile acids (non-selective binding) and is a Bile acid sequestrant.

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