Where is Zafirlukast used?

Zafirlukast is a type of medicine called a leukotriene receptor antagonist. This is used to control and prevent symptoms caused by asthma. Controlling the symptoms of asthma helps you maintain your normal activities. It will also cut down the time lost from school or work. 

How does Zafirlukast work?

Leukotrienes are chemicals your body releases when you breathe in an allergen that acts in many areas of the body. These chemicals cause swelling in your lungs and tightening of the muscles around your airways which cause asthma symptoms. 

This medicine blocks the actions of leukotrienes. This prevents inflammation, increased mucus production, and narrowing of the airways that occur in asthma. This helps prevent asthma attacks from occurring. 

How is Zafirlukast taken?

This medication is taken without food usually two times a day or as directed by your doctor. Take a dose on an empty stomach at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. This medication is taken by mouth with a full glass of water. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. 

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not increase your dose, use this drug more often, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part you do not understand. If you missed a dose, call your doctor for instructions. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose. It may cause another complication or may worsen your current condition. 

What are the precautions in taking Zafirlukast?

• Zafirlukast must not be used if you are allergic to its ingredients. Inform your doctor if you have experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, inform your doctor right away and stop using this medicine.
• This is not used for the treatment of an asthma attack. You need to keep your usual reliever inhaler ready for this. Consult your doctor if you need to use your reliever more often than normal or if it becomes less effective at treating attacks.
• If you find that your asthma is improved after starting treatment with this medicine you should not stop taking any of your other medicines, in particular any corticosteroid inhalers or tablets. This medicine is not a substitute for corticosteroids. However, you may find that you need to use your reliever inhaler less frequently.
• The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risks to the developing baby. Seek further medical advice from your doctor.
• This medicine passes into breast milk. This medicine should not be taken by women who are breastfeeding. Ask your doctor for further advice.