IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Table of Contents
- Uses and How to Use
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Medication Interactions
- Dosage and Storage
- Medication Images
Pronounced: (ZA-fir-LOO-kast)
Zafirlukast Oral Uses
Zafirlukast is used to prevent asthma symptoms and to decrease the number of asthma attacks in people 5 and older. It helps make breathing easier by reducing swelling (inflammation) in the airways. Regular use of this medication can help control your asthma, improve your ability to exercise, and decrease the number of times you need to use your rescue inhaler.
This medication works by blocking the activity of natural substances (leukotrienes) that may cause or worsen asthma. This medication does not work immediately and is not used to treat sudden asthma attacks.
How To Use Zafirlukast Oral
Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking zafirlukast and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth, usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor. Zafirlukast should be taken on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Your dosage is based on your age, medical condition and response to therapy.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Do not increase or decrease your dose or stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Continue to take other medications for asthma as directed by your doctor. This medication works over time and is not meant to relieve sudden attacks of asthma. Therefore, if an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed.
It may take 1 to 2 weeks before you feel the full benefit of this medication. Inform your doctor if your condition (e.g., asthma symptoms, number of times you use your rescue inhaler) persists or worsens.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Information last revised December
2010
Copyright(c) 2010 First DataBank,
Inc.

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