 |
Accolate |
Drug Name:
|
Zafirlukast |
Pronunciation:
|
za-FIR-loo-kast |
Drug Classification:
|
Controller |
Other Names:
|
Accolate?™ (ACK-o-late) |
How Supplied?
|
Information to come. |
Why is this
medication prescribed? |
This medication is a non-steroidal
tablet used for the prevention and treatment of asthma symptoms.
Zafirlukast works by directly blocking production of substances
in the body that can cause asthma symptoms. |
When should
it be used? |
This medication should be taken
twice daily, even if you are not having asthma symptoms. It
is not an effective medication for use during an acute asthma
episode. |
Typical dosing
and age-specific information: |
Always follow doctor's orders
and label instructions when taking any medication.
Adults and Children 12 and Over: Typically one 20-mg tablet
twice daily. Children 5 to 11 Years Old: Typically, one 10-mg tablet
twice daily. |
How should
this medication be used? |
Zafirlukast should be taken
twice daily even if you are not having asthma symptoms.
Do not take this medication with food. Wait one hour before
eating or wait two hours after eating to take this medicine. |
What special
instructions should I follow while using this medication? |
Use this medicine as directed
by your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without
first checking with your doctor. |
What side
effects can this medication cause? |
- diarrhea
- headaches
- nausea
If any of these continue or are bothersome, contact your
doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist. A rare side effect of Zafirlukast
is the development of liver problems. This is more common
in women. If you develop pain in the upper right side of
your abdomen, nausea, fatigue, and lethargy or develop jaundice
(yellowed appearance of whites of eyes or skin), flu-like
symptoms, or decreased appetite while on Zafirlukast, contact
your doctor. Liver function tests may be necessary while
taking this medication. |
What other
precautions should I follow while using this medication? |
Understand that this medication
will not stop an acute asthma episode. While using zafirlukast,
if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, call your
doctor right away. People with a history of liver problems
should consult their doctor. |
What storage
conditions are necessary for this medication? |
Store at room temperature between
68-77 degrees F, away from light and moisture. |
Healthsquare.com:
Available on-line at The PDR Family Guide to Prescription
Drugs
Walgreen’s Pharmacy Patient Information
HealthEast Care System Pharmacy Patient
Information Sheets
WebMD Health: Available on-line at my.webmd.com AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP manufacturers
information |