Accolate

Common Name: zafirlukast

How does Accolate work?

Zafirlukast belongs to a group of medications known as leukotriene receptor antagonists. It works by blocking chemicals produced by the body called leukotrienes. Leukotrienes cause the lining of the breathing passages of the lung to swell. When used regularly, zafirlukast helps to reduce the inflammation in the lining of the airways to make breathing easier. Zafirlukast is used for the prevention and chronic treatment of asthma in adults and children 12 years of age and older. It works over a long period of time to prevent asthma attacks but will not help to relieve an asthma attack when it is occurring. Asthma sufferers should always have their fast-acting asthma relief medication on hand to deal with attacks. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for other conditions not listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Accolate?

The recommended dose for adults and children aged 12 years and over is 20 mg twice daily taken on an empty stomach. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. For this medicine to be effective, it is important to take it regularly, exactly as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel your asthma is under control, unless otherwise directed by the doctor. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Never double up on doses. Zafirlukast is usually added to the other medications you are taking for asthma. Do not stop taking any asthma medications without speaking with your doctor. If you feel your asthma symptoms do not improve or worsen while taking this medication, contact your doctor. This product should be stored at room temperature, out of reach of children.

What form(s) does Accolate come in?

Each white-to-off-white, round, film-coated tablet, with surface markings, contains zafirlukast 20 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Accolate?

Zafirlukast should not be used by people who are allergic to the product or any of its ingredients.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Accolate?

Asthma attacks: Zafirlukast should not be used in an attempt to relieve acute asthma attacks. Have your rescue medication ready in case of an acute attack. Do not stop taking zafirlukast without consulting your doctor. Warfarin interaction: Taking warfarin together with zafirlukast significantly increases the time it takes blood to clot. Patients taking warfarin and zafirlukast should have their bleeding times monitored closely and have their anticoagulant dose (warfarin) adjusted accordingly. Liver problems: Zafirlukast is not recommended for people with reduced liver function. It may also cause severe liver problems. If you develop jaundice (signs include yellowing of the skin or eyes), flu-like symptoms, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, itching, and pain on the right side of your abdomen, under the ribcage, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Pregnancy: The safety of zafirlukast during pregnancy has not been established. The potential risks should be weighed against the benefits of continuing therapy; this medication should be used only if clearly needed. Breast-feeding: Zafirlukast passes into breast milk. It should not be used by women who are breast-feeding. Children: The effectiveness and safety of zafirlukast for children under 12 years of age have not been established.