Zafirlukast
ZAFIRLUKAST ORAL (za-FEER-lew-kast) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Accolate USES: This medication is used for the prevention and treatment of chronic asthma. It is not intended for acute attacks. OTHER USES: This drug may also be used to minimize breathing problems caused by exercising or sensitivity to aspirin. HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Take as directed twice daily one hour before or two hours after a meal on a regular basis. While the drug should continue to be taken during an asthma attack, it will not stop the attack. It is meant to lessen the number and severity of attacks. SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, nausea and diarrhea may occur. If these continue or are bothersome, notify your doctor promptly. If you notice any of the following unlikely but serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention: persistent nausea, stomach pain, dark urine, fatigue, yellowing eyes or skin. If you experience any of the side effects mentioned above, use of this drug may need to be stopped. If treatment is stopped due to those effects, never take this drug again. There is an increased risk of liver problems occurring in females. Very unlikely but notify your doctor promptly if you develop: sore throat, bleeding, bruising, muscle aches, unusual weight loss. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, any allergies. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication. This medication is present in breast milk. Avoid this drug while breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription or prescription medication you may take especially of: terfenadine, astemizole, warfarin, aspirin, erythromycin, theophylline. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE:If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include rash or severe upset stomach. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., liver function) may be performed to monitor your progress. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.
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