Zafirlukast

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Generic Name of Zafirlukast - Learn More

Zafirlukast

Zafirlukast Precaution - What You Need to Know

Before starting treatment with Zafirlukast, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for the individual. Patients should observe the following precautions:

- Liver Function: Zafirlukast is metabolized in the liver, so it should be used with caution in individuals with liver disease. Patients with hepatitis or liver enzyme abnormalities should be monitored closely, and the medication may be contraindicated in severe liver dysfunction.
- Pregnancy: Zafirlukast falls under Category C for pregnancy, meaning that its safety has not been established in pregnant women. It should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. Always consult a healthcare provider during pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: The safety of Zafirlukast during breastfeeding is not well established, so it should be used only when absolutely necessary, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Asthma Exacerbation: Zafirlukast is not intended for the treatment of acute asthma attacks. Patients should have a rescue inhaler on hand, and the medication should not be used as a substitute for bronchodilators or corticosteroids in case of a severe attack.
- Kidney Function: Zafirlukast is generally well-tolerated in patients with kidney problems, but any new symptoms should be reported to a doctor to assess the need for dose adjustments.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, Zafirlukast can cause hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. Any signs of allergic reactions require immediate medical attention.

Zafirlukast Indication - Uses and Benefits

Zafirlukast is primarily prescribed for the following conditions:

- Chronic Asthma: It is used to treat chronic asthma and exercise-induced bronchospasm. Zafirlukast helps reduce inflammation and constriction of the airways by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals in the body that contribute to allergic reactions and asthma.
- Seasonal Allergies: Zafirlukast is also used to manage symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes, as it helps reduce inflammation caused by allergens.
- Prophylaxis of Asthma: Zafirlukast can be used as a long-term treatment to prevent asthma exacerbations and improve lung function.

Zafirlukast Contraindications - Important Warnings

Zafirlukast is contraindicated in the following situations:

- Hypersensitivity: Patients who have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Zafirlukast or any of its components should avoid using the medication.
- Severe Liver Dysfunction: Zafirlukast should not be used in patients with severe liver disease or significantly elevated liver enzymes (e.g., liver cirrhosis, hepatitis).
- Children Under 5 Years: Zafirlukast is not approved for children under the age of 5. The safety and efficacy have not been established in younger pediatric patients.
- Concurrent Use with Gemfibrozil: Zafirlukast should not be combined with gemfibrozil (a cholesterol-lowering medication) as it can lead to increased blood levels of Zafirlukast and the risk of side effects.

Zafirlukast Side Effects - What to Expect

Common and severe side effects associated with Zafirlukast include:

- Common Side Effects:
- Headache: A frequent complaint among users.
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort: This includes nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Fatigue: Some patients may experience tiredness or drowsiness.
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Respiratory infections like the common cold are slightly more common in patients on Zafirlukast.

- Severe Side Effects:
- Liver Damage: Rarely, Zafirlukast may cause liver damage or hepatotoxicity, which may manifest as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea. Liver function tests should be monitored regularly.
- Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rare but serious reactions include anaphylaxis, swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and skin rashes.
- Churg-Strauss Syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, which can lead to symptoms such as eosinophilia, shortness of breath, and worsening asthma symptoms.
- Neuropsychiatric Events: Some users may experience mood swings, depression, or irritability.

Zafirlukast Pregnancy Category ID - Safety Information

2

Zafirlukast Mode of Action - How It Works

Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) that works by blocking leukotrienes, which are chemicals released by the body during allergic reactions and inflammation. Leukotrienes can cause bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways), mucus production, and inflammation, all of which contribute to asthma and allergic rhinitis.

- Blocking Leukotrienes: Zafirlukast binds to and blocks CysLT1 receptors, which are activated by leukotrienes, preventing them from causing inflammation and constriction in the airways.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: By inhibiting leukotrienes, Zafirlukast helps to reduce inflammation, dilates airways, and improves airflow, thereby preventing asthma attacks and improving lung function over time.

Zafirlukast Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

Several drug interactions can affect the efficacy and safety of Zafirlukast, including:

- CYP450 Enzyme Inhibitors: Zafirlukast is metabolized via the CYP450 enzyme system, particularly CYP2C9. Therefore, drugs that inhibit this enzyme (e.g., fluconazole, ketoconazole) may increase the concentration of Zafirlukast in the blood, raising the risk of side effects.
- CYP450 Enzyme Inducers: Drugs that induce the CYP450 system (e.g., phenytoin, rifampin) may reduce Zafirlukast's effectiveness by lowering its blood levels.
- Warfarin: Caution should be exercised when using Zafirlukast in combination with warfarin (a blood thinner), as it can affect the metabolism of warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Aspirin: Zafirlukast may interact with aspirin, especially in patients with a history of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), and may increase the risk of asthma exacerbations in some cases.
- Other Leukotriene Modifiers: Concurrent use with other leukotriene inhibitors (such as montelukast) is not recommended unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, as this can lead to redundant effects and potential side effects.

Zafirlukast Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

The typical dosage for Zafirlukast in adults is:

- Asthma Maintenance: 20 mg twice daily, taken orally.
- Exercise-induced Bronchospasm: 20 mg at least 2 hours before exercise to help prevent bronchospasm triggered by physical activity.
- Acute Asthma Attacks: Zafirlukast is not effective for treating acute asthma attacks and should not be used for this purpose. It is intended for long-term prevention and control.

Zafirlukast Child Dose - Dosage for Children

The typical pediatric dose for Zafirlukast is:

- Children (5-11 years): 10 mg twice daily.
- Children under 5 years: Zafirlukast is not approved for use in children under 5 years of age, and its safety and efficacy in this age group have not been established.

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As always, patients should consult a healthcare provider before initiating treatment with Zafirlukast to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their specific medical conditions and needs.

Zafirlukast Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

Zafirlukast does not typically require dose adjustments for individuals with mild or moderate kidney impairment. However, it is recommended to use the medication with caution in severe renal impairment, and the prescribing doctor may decide whether adjustments or closer monitoring are needed.