Accolate (Zafirlukast): drug uses, side effects, storage, precautions
Drug Uses
Accolate is used in the treatment and prevention of asthma long term in children and patients five years and older.
How Taken
Accolate needs to be taken every day at the exact same time. This medication should be taken an hour to two hours after you have eaten on empty stomach.
Precautions
An asthma attack cannot be stopped by Accolate once it is started. If your liver function lab tests show signs of liver damage you should never take this medication again.
Missed Dose
Doses should not be missed. Take as soon as dosage is remembered if not close to the next dosage scheduled.
Side Effects
Nausea and diarrhea are minor side effects that may happen. More severe effects include joint pain, appetite loss, skin yellowing, and breathing difficulty you should contact your physician immediately if any of these appear.
Storage
Accolate needs to be kept between 68-77 degree F temperatures and away from moisture and heat.
Overdose
Call your local poison control or emergency room as soon as possible if an overdose is suspected.
More Information
Your physician should be told if you are taking blood thinners, anticoagulants or Theophyllines before you use this medication as adverse reactions could occur.