What is Zafirlukast?
Zafirlukast is basically a leukotriene inhibitor which is prescribed to counteract asthma attacks in adults as well as children (5 years old or above). It may also be utilized for purposes not mentioned in this concise clinical guide.
What are the common conditions in which Zafirlukast prescribed?
The medicine is recommended to treat asthma attacks and Prophylaxis in adults and children of at least 5 years of age and above.
How should I take Zafirlukast?
Adhere closely to all the directives mentioned on your prescription label and medication guides. Remember, this medicine is not a seedy rescue drug for asthma attacks. So, if you see your breathing problems aggravate rapidly, and you feel that medicine is effective, get to see the doctor.
Have the medication on empty stomach, either about an hour before or 2 hours after the meals. The doctor may alter the doses, owing to factors like, surgery disease or latest asthma attack. You should not variate the doses, without your doctor’s advice. Even if your asthma symptoms do not show up, persist using the drug as per the instructions. Do not discontinue.
If you are on oral steroid medications, avoid quitting zafirlukast abruptly. Do not reduce your dose without a doctor’s say. Store at room temperature in a cool, dark, and dry place away from moisture, heat, and light. Tightly close the bottle when not using.
Zafirlukast Dosing Information
Adult dosage for Asthma: Maintenance
- Take 20 mg doses twice a day, orally. 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
- Use: it is prescribed for chronic treatment of asthma and teat Prophylaxis
Pediatric dose for Asthma: Maintenance
- Under 5 years: not approved for their use.
- 5-11 years: take 10 mg doses twice a day orally. One hour before or 2 hours after meals.
- 12 years and above: Take 20 mg doses twice a day, orally. 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
- Use: it is prescribed for chronic treatment of asthma and teat Prophylaxis
When you should not take Zafirlukast?
Do not take this drug if you are sensitive to it or have some liver condition (counting cirrhosis). Inform your doctor about the liver disease, if you had any in the past. It is not recommended being used by those younger than 5 years of age.
If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), the chewable pill which contains phenylalanine could have bad effects on you. It is yet unrecognized if the medication will have detrimental impact on foetus. Inform your doctor beforehand if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future. While you are using this drug, avoid suckling your baby.
What are the possible side effects of Zafirlukast?
If you experience symptoms of allergic response to the medication such as hives, blisters, shallow breath, inflammation in your face or throat, seek immediate medical attention.
Inform your physician if you experience the following signs:
- Serious sinus pain
- Skin rashes
- Numbness or
- Having sense of needle jabbing in the arms and legs
Use of this medicine can inflict new mental problems or even worsen the existing ones.
In case you notice any unusual changes in your mood or disposition like:
- Unusual frenzy, feeling restive or irritable, aggression
- Depression, anxiety, unclear cognition, attention, and memory issues
- Stammering, shakiness, involuntary muscle movements
- Suicidal thoughts and attempts
- Sleep difficulties, sleep-walking, hallucinations, or clear dreams
- Repetitive or compulsive behaviour
You also need to consult the doctor, if you notice the following indications:
- Exacerbating or no improvement in asthma symptoms
- Hepatic (liver) problems: jaundice, itching, dark urine, fatigue, appetite loss, nausea
Some common side effects comprise:
- Diarrhoea, stomach ache, nausea
- Headache
- Cold symptoms: stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat
However, these all are not the only possible side- effects, as it may show in other symptoms as well. Ask your doctor for clinical guidance about its side effects.
What to do if I miss the dose?
Try to take your medicine as soon as possible. In case you miss your dose, and the time for your next dose is nearing, skip it.
Avoid taking two doses at a time.
Common Drug Interaction with Zafirlukast
Apprize your doctor about other drugs you are taking, particularly:
- Fluconazole
- Theophylline
- Warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven
- Erythromycin
This is not an exhaustive list of drug interactions. Other medications may interact with this medicine, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Bottom Line
Zafirlukast is a leukotriene inhibitor, primarily suggested preventing asthma attacks. It is meant for use only by adults and children above 5 years of age. This medicine, however, should be taken under strict adherence with the directions of your physician, else a person may face serious consequences. In case you experience any side- effects immediately rush to the doctor.
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