Zafirlukast

October 31st, 2011 by admin1

Zafirlukast is a medicine used in the prevention of asthma and asthma symptoms. Zafirlukast is a class of medication called leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs). It works be reducing a natural substance in the body that causes the swelling and tightening of the airways.  Zafirlukast is a medication that is taken by mouth, be sure to follow the prescription label carefully. Or follow the instructions your doctor gave you on how to take this medication. If you have any questions about how to take this medicine talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do and they will help you. Zafirlukast does not treat sudden asthma attacks. You will still need to have a short-acting inhaler for these situations. Your doctor will know more about how to treat those asthma attacks. Zafirlukast does not cure asthma, it just helps treat the symptoms, therefore, keep taking Zafirlukast even if you feel well.

Zafirlukast is sometimes used to treat other medical conditions such as allergic rhinitis or hay fever.  Your doctor will know more about these options so ask him or her about those if you have any questions. Before you take Zafirlukast tell your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. Tell your doctor about all medications that you are taking, including supplements as these may cause adverse effects on your body. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, going to become pregnant, or breast feeding.

Zafirlukast has caused some side effects in clinical studies. These side effects were generally not severe. However, if these side effects are severe or do not go away contact your doctor. Side effects include:

  • Headache

If you experience any of the following side effects call your doctor at once because they are serious. Serious side effects that may need medical attention include:

  • nausea
  • loss of appetite
  • pain in the right upper part of your stomach
  • excessive tiredness
  • lack of energy
  • itching
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • flu-like symptoms
  • rash
  • swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • hoarseness
  • pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet

Zafirlukast may have similar symptoms to albuterol. Albuterol side effects include:

  • nervousness
  • shakiness
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
  • muscle cramps
  • excessive motion or activity
  • sudden changes in mood
  • nosebleed
  • nausea
  • increased or decreased appetite
  • difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
  • pale skin

Serious side effects while taking albuterol may include:

  • fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
  • chest pain
  • fever
  • blisters or rash
  • hives
  • itching
  • swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
  • increased difficulty breathing
  • difficulty swallowing
  • hoarseness

If you experience any other side effects call your doctor and he will have more information for you.