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Zileuton |
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What is Zileuton and why is it prescribed? Zileuton tablets prevent and relieve the symptoms of chronic asthma. The drug works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of your airways, allowing them to open wider, and by reducing inflammation, swelling, and mucus secretion in the lungs. Zileuton has been known to cause liver damage. Be sure to see your doctor every few months for liver function tests. How should you take Zileuton? Follow your doctors directions for taking Zileuton. Zileuton should be taken 4 times a day. Although you can take it with or without meals, it may be easier to remember if you take it with meals and at bedtime. While taking Zileuton, you should continue taking all other asthma medications your doctor has prescribed, unless directed otherwise. Do not decrease the dose or stop taking any of these drugs. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Zileuton at room temperature, away from light. Are there any Zileuton side effects? Zileuton side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Zileuton side effects may include abdominal pain, headache, indigestion, loss of strength, muscle aches, nausea, and pain. Less common Zileuton side effects may include chest pain, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, fever, gas, general discomfort, inflammation of the vagina, inflamed eyes, insomnia, itching, joint pain, muscle tension, neck pain or rigidity, nervousness, urinary tract infection, and vomiting. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Zileuton? If Zileuton is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zileuton with Astemizole (Hismanal), Beta blockers (such as Inderal, Sectral, and Tenormin), Calcium channel blockers (such as Calan, Cardizem, and Procardia), Cisapride (Propulsid), Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), Terfenadine (Seldane), Theophylline (Theo-Dur), or Warfarin (Coumadin). While you are taking Zileuton, your theophylline dosage may need to be lowered, and your theophylline levels will have to be carefully watched. Dosages of Inderal may also need reduction, and warfarin dosages may need adjustment as well. Are there any special warnings about Zileuton? Zileuton will not help an acute asthma attack in which immediate opening of the airways is needed. If you find that you have to use your other asthma medications more often, report this to your doctor. Because Zileuton can affect the liver, make sure your doctor is aware of any problems you've had in the past. Warn the doctor if you are a heavy drinker. Your liver function will be tested before you start Zileuton, and regularly thereafter. Be sure to go in for these tests. If they reveal liver damage, you will have to stop taking Zileuton. Be sure to tell your doctor immediately if you develop any symptoms of liver disease. These include pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, fatigue, lethargy, itching, general discomfort, and jaundice. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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