Why is this medication prescribed?

Accolate (generic name: zafirlukast) is a medication used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by blocking leukotrienes, which are chemicals in the body that contribute to inflammation and constriction in the airways. By inhibiting these chemicals, Accolate helps to reduce inflammation, decrease mucus production, and prevent bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways).

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage exactly. The typical dosage for adults is 20 mg twice daily, while for children aged 5 to 11, it’s usually 10 mg twice daily. However, your dosage might vary based on your condition and response to the medication.
• Administration: Take Accolate orally with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• Timing: It’s important to take Accolate regularly at the same times each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body.
• Avoidance: Avoid drinking alcohol and taking other medications that can interact with Accolate unless your doctor approves.
• Regular Monitoring: Keep up with regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your asthma or COPD and adjust the treatment as needed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and instructions related to your specific condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Accolate (zafirlukast) is primarily used for managing asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but it may also be prescribed for other conditions involving chronic inflammation of the airways. However, its use for other conditions is less common

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions for using Accolate:

• Liver Function: Accolate can affect liver function. Regular liver function tests may be needed, especially if you have a history of liver disease. Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
• Drug Interactions: Accolate can interact with other medications. Inform your doctor of all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Particularly, it can interact with medications that are metabolized by the liver, like certain antifungals and antibiotics.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing, seek medical help immediately.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Accolate with your doctor. It is not fully known if Accolate is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Asthma Attack: Accolate is used for prevention, not for the immediate relief of acute asthma attacks. Keep a rescue inhaler (such as a short-acting beta-agonist) on hand for sudden asthma symptoms.
• Kidney Function: Although rare, it’s a good idea to let your doctor know if you have kidney problems, as this could affect how the medication is processed in your body.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms while taking Accolate.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Food Interactions: Accolate can be taken with or without food. However, avoid drinking alcohol excessively as it may increase the risk of liver issues.
• Grapefruit Juice: There is no specific dietary restriction regarding grapefruit juice with Accolate, but it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor, as grapefruit juice can interact with various medications.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Schedule: Resume your regular dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Accolate (zafirlukast) can cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Issues: Symptoms of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or persistent nausea.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe reactions may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Mood Changes: Rarely, Accolate may cause mood changes or behavioral changes, including depression or agitation.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Respiratory Issues: Symptoms like wheezing or worsening asthma can occur, although this is rare.
• Joint Pain: Some users may experience joint pain or muscle pain.

If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms that concern you, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide guidance on whether you should continue the medication or if an alternative treatment might be needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Accolate:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Accolate at room temperature, away from moisture and heat (usually between 59°F to 86°F or 15°C to 30°C).
• Container: Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Children: Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Medication Take-Back Programs: The best way to dispose of unused or expired medications is to use a medication take-back program or pharmacy disposal service. These programs are designed to safely handle medications.
• Household Disposal: If a take-back program isn’t available, you can mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or kitty litter) in a sealed container, then dispose of it in your household trash.
• Flush: Only flush Accolate down the toilet if the label or patient information specifically instructs you to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

Emergency Contact:

• Poison Control: Call your local poison control center or emergency services immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an Accolate overdose might include severe nausea, vomiting, or unusual drowsiness. Seek medical help right away if you suspect an overdose.

Emergency Plan:

• Have the contact information for poison control and emergency services readily available.
• If you have any other concerns or symptoms, consult your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and any potential side effects from Accolate.
• Drug Interactions: Be aware of potential drug interactions. Inform your doctor of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Adherence: Take Accolate consistently as prescribed. Do not stop or alter your dose without consulting your doctor.

For any additional questions or concerns about Accolate, your healthcare provider or pharmacist is the best resource. They can offer personalized advice based on your health needs.