ACCOLATE (Zafirlukast)

Accolate Information

Accolate is an inhibitor of leukotrienes that are substances in the body that are associated with the inflammation and blockage of the airway muscles and accumulation of fluid in the lungs. It is generically known as Zafirlukast.

Accolate Indications

Accolate is generally used in the prevention of asthma attacks though it may also be used for other purposes.

Accolate Warnings

Taking this drug may aggravate liver disease. Talk to your doctor if you have one or if you are drinking alcoholic beverages. Taking warfarin or coumadin with this drug may increase the risk of bleeding so inform your doctor so that particular monitoring may be done. Consult your doctor first if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby. This drug may harm a nursing baby.

When you are over 60 years of age, you are more probable to experience the side effects. This drug should not be taken by a child below 5 years of age.

Accolate Intake Guidelines
Accolate must be taken directly as ordered by your doctor. Each dose of Accolate must be taken with a full glass of water. It must also be taken on an empty stomach 1 or 2 hours before each meal. Even though it may be a while before you notice the effects of this prescription, don’t discontinue taking this medicine without first consulting your doctor. Keep on taking other asthma medications as prescribed by your doctor because Accolate just prevents asthma attacks but doesn’t stop it.

Accolate Dosage

Obtain the dosage for this prescription from you doctor. The dosage may depend on you age.

Accolate Overdose

The symptoms of overdose of Accolate are unidentified. But seek medical attention immediately if you have taken more than your doctor has prescribed.

Accolate Missed Dose

Immediately take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But if it almost time for the subsequent dose, skip the missed one and take the next dose as scheduled. It is important to keep in mind that one must never take a double dose of this medication.

Accolate Side Effects
Taking Accolate may cause liver problems that may are characterized by:

Nausea
Unexplained fatigue or tiredness
Itching
Jaundice
Pain in the upper left stomach area
Taking this medicine may cause serious allergic reactions and side effects as:

Difficulty breathing
Closing of throat
Swelling of face, tongue or lips
Hives
Numbness, tingling or pain
Bruising, rash, or unexplained open sores
Worsening of respiratory problems
If you experience any of these serious side effects, immediately discontinue use and contact your doctor.

Less serious side effects may also occur. Continue use but contact your doctor. These side effects include:

Dizziness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Other side effects may also occur. Contact your doctor if you feel something unusual after taking Accolate.

Accolate Drug Reactions
Inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following drugs before you take Accolate:

Aspirin
Erythromycin
Warfarin
Theophylline
You may need dosage adjustments or you may even not be able to take Accolate if you are taking these products.

Other drugs may also interact with Accolate. Inform your doctor if you are taking other over-the-counter prescriptions, even if they are herbal.