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Accolate, |zafirlukast

zafirlukast

Generic Name: zafirlukast (za FIR loo cast)
Brand Names: Accolate

What is zafirlukast?

Zafirlukast is a leukotriene (loo-koe-try-een) inhibitor. Leukotrienes are substances in the body that are associated with the inflammation and constriction of airway muscles and the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, all of which occur during an asthma attack.

Zafirlukast is used to prevent asthma attacks.

Zafirlukast may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about zafirlukast?

Zafirlukast will not stop an asthma attack that has already begun. It is used to prevent asthmatic attacks.

Use zafirlukast on a regular basis for best results. It may take several weeks to get the maximum effect of this medication.

Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking zafirlukast?

Before taking zafirlukast, tell your doctor if you

• have liver disease; or

• drink alcohol.

You may not be able to take zafirlukast, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Talk to your doctor before taking zafirlukast if you are taking warfarin (Coumadin), which is used to reduce the risk of blood clot formation. Taking these drugs together increases the risk of bleeding and special monitoring may be required.

How should I take zafirlukast?

Take zafirlukast exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Do not stop taking zafirlukast without first talking to your doctor. It may be some time before you begin to notice effects from this medication.

Continue taking any other asthma medications, as directed by your doctor.

Zafirlukast will not stop an asthma attack that has already begun. Keep another medication on hand to treat attacks.

Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

The symptoms of an overdose of zafirlukast are unknown.

What should I avoid while taking zafirlukast?

Avoid items or activities that are known allergens or that make your symptoms worse. Clean areas where dust or pet fur may aggravate your condition.

Zafirlukast side effects

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• numbness, tingling, or pain;

• a rash or unexplained open sores or bruising; or

• worsening respiratory symptoms.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take zafirlukast and talk to your doctor if you experience

• dizziness;

• headache; or

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect zafirlukast?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• aspirin;

• erythromycin (Ery-Tab, E-Mycin, E.E.S., others);

• warfarin (Coumadin); or

• theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theolair, Elixophyllin, Slo-Phyllin, others).

You may not be able to take zafirlukast, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with zafirlukast. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has more information about zafirlukast written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Zafirlukast is available with a prescription under the brand name Accolate. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Accolate 20 mg--round white tablets

• Accolate 10 mg-round tablets

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed
• Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ("Multum") is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum"s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum"s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.