Efficacy of colesevelam on lowering glycemia and lipids

A few trials have investigated the efficacy of colesevelam in the reduction of glycemic and lipid outcomes. These meta-analysis pooled data from 8 such trials and found that colesevelam is associated with significant reductions in plasma fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and low-density lipoprotein. Insignificant reductions in high-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol were also noted along with significant increase in triglycerides. This analysis concludes that colesevelam may be of particular benefit in managing type 2 diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia in whom low-density lipoprotein levels are of particular concern. Caution should be taken in patients who have hypertriglyceridemia or low high-density lipoprotein levels before starting therapy.