Generic medicine

Zafirlukast: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) indicated for the prophylaxis and chronic maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and children.

Forms:Tablet

About Zafirlukast

Indications of Zafirlukast

Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) indicated for the prophylaxis and chronic maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and children.

Established / FDA-approved use

  • Prophylaxis and long-term maintenance treatment of chronic asthma in adults and children 5 years of age and older.

Important limitation of use

Zafirlukast is not indicated for reversal of acute bronchospasm, including status asthmaticus. It is not a rescue medication; patients must have a separate fast-acting bronchodilator available at all times for acute asthma symptoms.

Dosage & Administration of Zafirlukast

Dosage of Zafirlukast should be individualized based on age, and treatment should continue even during symptom-free periods as part of chronic maintenance therapy.

PopulationRecommended Dose
Adults and children 12 years and older20 mg orally twice daily
Children 5 to 11 years10 mg orally twice daily
Elderly patientsStandard adult dose; clearance may be reduced 2- to 3-fold, so clinical monitoring is advised

Zafirlukast should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, as food significantly reduces its absorption.

Side Effects of Zafirlukast

Common side effects of Zafirlukast include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Pharyngitis and upper respiratory infection
  • Generalized pain and accidental injury

Serious but rare risks — including hepatotoxicity, neuropsychiatric events, and Churg-Strauss syndrome — are discussed in detail under Precautions and Warnings; seek medical attention promptly if these occur.

Contraindications of Zafirlukast

Zafirlukast is contraindicated in:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to Zafirlukast or any component of the formulation.
  • Patients with hepatic impairment, including hepatic cirrhosis, given the risk of hepatotoxicity associated with Zafirlukast (see Precautions and Warnings).

Frequently Asked Questions about Zafirlukast

What is Zafirlukast used for?

Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for the prophylaxis and long-term maintenance treatment of chronic asthma in adults and children 5 years of age and older. It is not used to treat a sudden asthma attack.

Can Zafirlukast be used to stop an asthma attack that has already started?

No. Zafirlukast is not a rescue medication and does not work quickly enough to relieve acute bronchospasm. Patients taking Zafirlukast must keep a fast-acting rescue inhaler on hand for sudden asthma symptoms.

How should I take Zafirlukast?

Zafirlukast should be taken by mouth on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, since food reduces its absorption by about 40%. It should be taken regularly, twice daily, even when you feel well.

What are the serious risks I should know about with Zafirlukast?

Zafirlukast has been associated with rare but serious liver injury; stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you develop yellowing of the skin/eyes, right-sided abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, or itching. Zafirlukast has also been linked to rare mood or behavioral changes (including agitation, depression, or suicidal thoughts) and, very rarely, a serious blood vessel and lung condition called Churg-Strauss syndrome, particularly when steroid doses are being reduced. Report any of these symptoms to your physician right away.

Can I take Zafirlukast if I have liver disease?

No. Zafirlukast is contraindicated in patients with hepatic impairment, including cirrhosis, because of the risk of liver injury associated with this medicine.

Is Zafirlukast safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Zafirlukast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, after discussing the potential benefits and risks with your physician. It is not known whether Zafirlukast passes into breast milk, so caution is advised and a doctor should be consulted before use while breastfeeding.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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