Table of Contents
What is zafirlukast?
Zafirlukast is a leukotriene inhibitor used to prevent asthma attacks in both adults and children as young as 5 years old. It may also be employed for purposes not explicitly mentioned in this medication guide.
Side effects of Zafirlukast
Seek emergency medical assistance if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, blisters, severe itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Contact your doctor promptly if you observe signs of blood vessel inflammation, including flu-like symptoms, intense sinus pain, a skin rash, or a “pins and needles” sensation in your arms or legs.
Some individuals using zafirlukast have reported new or exacerbated mental issues. Discontinue the medication and consult your doctor immediately if you notice unusual changes in mood or behavior, such as agitation, aggression, restlessness, anxiety, depression, confusion, memory or attention problems, stuttering, tremors, suicidal thoughts or actions, hallucinations, sleep disturbances, vivid dreams, sleepwalking, or compulsive behaviors.
Contact your doctor promptly if you experience worsening or no improvement in asthma symptoms or signs of liver problems, such as nausea, loss of appetite, upper right side stomach pain, tiredness, itching, dark urine, or jaundice.
Common side effects of zafirlukast may include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat.
This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and others may occur. Consult your doctor for medical advice regarding side effects, and report any adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Notify your doctor immediately if you observe signs of blood vessel inflammation or experience any unusual changes in mood or behavior while taking zafirlukast.
Before taking this medication
Avoid using zafirlukast if you are allergic to it or have liver disease, including cirrhosis. Inform your doctor of any history of liver disease.
Zafirlukast is not approved for use in children under 5 years old. The chewable tablet may contain phenylalanine, posing a risk to individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU).
The impact of zafirlukast on unborn babies is not known. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Avoid breastfeeding while using zafirlukast.
How to take zafirlukast
Adhere to the directions on your prescription label and carefully read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medication exactly as directed.
Zafirlukast is not a rapid-acting rescue medicine for asthma attacks. Seek medical attention if your breathing problems worsen quickly or if you believe your medications are ineffective.
Take zafirlukast on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Your dosage requirements may change due to surgery, illness, stress, or a recent asthma attack. Do not alter your dose or discontinue asthma medication without consulting your doctor.
Continue using zafirlukast as directed, even if you are asymptomatic.
If you are taking oral steroid medicine, do not cease it abruptly. Consult your doctor about tapering your dose.
Store zafirlukast at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Dosage information for Zafirlukast
Usual Adult Dose for Asthma — Maintenance:
- 20 mg orally twice a day, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
Comments:
- A dose of 20 mg twice daily was not associated with an increase in the overall incidence of adverse events or withdrawals in elderly patients.
Use: Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma
Usual Pediatric Dose for Asthma — Maintenance:
- Less than 5 years: The safety and effectiveness have not been established.
- 5 to 11 years: 10 mg orally twice a day, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
- 12 years or older: 20 mg orally twice a day, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
Use: Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma
What to do if you miss a dose
Take the missed dose as soon as possible, but skip it if your next dose is imminent. Do not double up on doses.
What to do in case of overdose
Seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Activities to avoid while taking zafirlukast
Steer clear of situations or activities that might trigger an asthma attack.
Drugs that may interact with zafirlukast
Inform your doctor about all your medications, particularly erythromycin, fluconazole, theophylline, and warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).
This list is not exhaustive, and other drugs may interact with zafirlukast, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
