Zafirlukast
Brand Names
AccolateWhat is Zafirlukast
Zafirlukast is an oral leukotriene receptor antagonist that belongs to leukotriene inhibitors and effective in the treatment of asthma. Leukotrienes are chemicals your body releases when you breathe in an allergen (such as pollen). These chemicals cause swelling in your lungs and tightening of the muscles around your airways which can result in asthma symptoms.
Side effects of Zafirlukast
Zafirlukast worsening asthma symptoms can cause the following side effects:
- new or worsening cough, fever, trouble breathing
- mood or behavior changes, anxiety, depression, sleep problems (insomnia)
- skin rash, bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness
- nausea, pain in your upper stomach, loss of appetite, flu symptoms, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
The warning signals may also be:
- headache
- diarrhea, stomach pain
- weakness
- dizziness
- muscle pain
- sore throat, cold symptoms
Indication
Zafirlukast is beneficial in the treatment of chronic asthma. It also helps to prevent asthma attacks in adults and children as young as 5 years old. It helps you to breathe easier by reducing inflammation in the airways. If you use the medication regularly it can help you to control your asthma, improve your ability to exercise and decrease the number of times you need to use your rescue inhaler.
Zafirlukast acts by blocking the activity of natural substances (leukotrienes) that may cause or worsen asthma. This medication does not belong to a group of medicines which work immediately and you should not use it for treating sudden asthma attacks. This medication may also be used for hay fever and to prevent breathing problems while exercising.
Precautions
You should discuss with your doctor if you can use this medication if you have the following conditions:
- allergy to leukotriene blockers
- liver problems
- headache
- diarrhea
- nausea
- pregnancy
- breast-feeding
Dosage forms
Zafirlukast is available as a tablet. The treatment plan and dose should be determined by your doctor. The standard dose is 20 mg orally twice a day, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals (for adults).
