Generic
Zafirlukast
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Zafirlukast is a prescription medicine used for asthma prevention and for the treatment of allergy symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose. It reduces inflammation in the airways and make breathing easier.
Description
Zafirlukast selectively antagonises the leukotriene D4 receptor. It inhibits bronchoconstriction caused by various inhaled antigens or irritants. It is not used in acute asthma attacks.
Indications
- Asthma prevention
- Allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose)
Therapeutic class
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist
Pharmacological class
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist
Pharmacology
Zafirlukast selectively antagonises the leukotriene D4 receptor. It inhibits bronchoconstriction caused by various inhaled antigens or irritants. It is not used in acute asthma attacks.
Mechanism of action
Blocks leukotriene D4 receptor, reducing inflammation in the airways and preventing bronchoconstriction.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Chronic asthma: 20 mg twice daily
- Hepatic impairment: Contraindicated
Child Dose (Oral):
- 5-11 yr: 10 mg twice daily
- >12 yr: 20 mg twice daily
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment not necessary
Administration
- Take on an empty stomach
- Take 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
- Swallow tablets whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take 2 hours before exercising if you have exercise-induced asthma
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if almost time for next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Infection
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Pain
- Weakness
Precautions & warnings
- Does not usually affect ability to drive
- Take on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
- It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden breathing problems
- Do not discontinue use without consulting your doctor
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Hepatic impairment, cirrhosis
- Acute asthmatic attacks
- Lactation
Drug interactions
- Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant activity, increased prothrombin time
- Theophylline, terfenadine and erythromycin: decreased plasma levels
- Fluconazole and high dose aspirin: increased plasma levels
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Zafirlukast; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Generally considered safe; animal studies show low or no adverse effects; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Probably unsafe; may pass into breast milk and harm the baby; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 5 years
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Safe; no dose adjustment recommended
Hepatic Impairment: Contraindicated; avoid in liver disease
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Limited information.
Treatment: Supportive care.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.