Zukast
Form: Tablet
Strength: 20mg
Generic Name: Zafirlukast
Company: Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 26.0 (Tablet)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Zukast is used for preventing and treating asthma in adults and children who are 5 years old or older.
Pharmacology
Zukast is a type of medicine that blocks certain substances in the body, called leukotrienes, which can cause swelling and tightening in the airways, leading to asthma symptoms. By blocking these substances, Zukast helps reduce inflammation and breathing problems associated with asthma.
Dosage & Administration
Children under 7 years: Zukast is not recommended for children under 7 due to a lack of safety information.
Children aged 7 to 11 years: The recommended dose is 10 mg twice a day.
Adults and children over 12 years: The recommended dose is one 20 mg tablet twice a day. Do not take more than this dose. Taking Zukast with food may reduce its effectiveness, so Zukast should be taken on an empty stomach.
Elderly: In older adults (over 65 years), the medicine may stay in the body longer, and caution is advised due to limited experience.
Renal impairment: No change in dose is needed for mild kidney problems.
Interaction
Zukast can be taken with other asthma or allergy treatments like inhalers and antihistamines without any issues. However, Zukast may interact with certain medicines, such as blood thinners like Warfarin, which may require extra monitoring. Zukast may also reduce the effectiveness of Theophylline and interact with other medicines like Terfenadine and Erythromycin, which can affect how the body processes Zukast.
Contraindications
Zukast should not be used by anyone who has had an allergic reaction to Zukast or any of its ingredients. Zukast is also not recommended for people with severe liver or kidney problems, or for children under 7 years old until more safety information is available.
Side Effects
Common side effects are headache, stomach upset, and digestive problems like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Rare side effects can include bruising, bleeding problems, or liver issues. Some allergic reactions, like skin rashes or swelling, have also been reported.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zukast has not been proven safe during pregnancy, so Zukast should only be used if absolutely necessary. Zukast is passed into breast milk, so Zukast should not be used by breastfeeding mothers.
Precautions & Warnings
Zukast should be taken regularly, even if symptoms improve. Zukast is not for use in an asthma emergency or to replace steroids. If any signs of liver problems occur, like stomach pain or yellowing of the skin, seek medical help. Rarely, some people may develop a condition called Churg Strauss syndrome, and the medication should be stopped if this happens.
Overdose Effects
N/A
Therapeutic Class
Leukotriene receptor antagonists.
Storage Conditions
Store between 20-25°C, away from light and moisture.
Similar Brands of Zafirlukast (Tablet – 20mg)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zafnil | Tablet | 20mg | General Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 12.0 |
| Zaft | Tablet | 20mg | Renata Limited | 26.0 |