Zileuton medication belong to Leukotriene receptor antagonist reverse transcriptase inhibitor class. Zileuton attenuates bronchoconstriction by inhibiting leukotriene-dependent smooth muscle contractions.

How to Take Zileuton

Take Zileuton exactly as prescribed by health care provider. Zileuton is generally available in market in the form Blisters of powder for oral inhalation 5 mg. After dilution, the solution is physically and chemically stable for 24 hr at room temperature and 48 hr if refrigerated. As an additional precaution, administer the diluted solution within 8 hr if stored at room temperature or 24 hr if refrigerated to minimize the potential administration of a microbially contaminated solution. Store undiluted vials at room temperature and protect from light. Do not administer with probenecid, acetaminophen, aspirin, or indomethacin (may inhibit metabolism or decrease clearance of Zileuton; serum concentrations may increase to potentially toxic levels).

Dosage Instructions for Zileuton Drug

Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma. Active liver disease; elevations in transaminases at least 3 times the ULN.

Interactions of Zileuton with other drugs

Propranolol, theophylline, warfarin: Effects of these agents may be increased.

What are the Side Effects of Zileuton -

Like other medicines, Zileuton can cause side effects. Some of the more common side effects of Zileuton include

* Pain; dizziness; insomnia; somnolence; malaise; nervousness; hypertonia.

* Abdominal pain; dyspepsia; nausea; vomiting; constipation; flatulence.

* Asthenia; myalgia; arthralgia; chest pain; fever; lymphadenopathy; muscle rigidity; pruritus.

Warnings and precautions before taking Zileuton :

* Warn the patient before taking Zileuton that this is not a bronchodilator and should not be used for the treatment of acute asthma attacks. However, advise the patient to continue during acute asthma attacks.

* Instruct the patient to continue to take other asthma medications as prescribed.

* Instruct the patient to avoid taking other medication, including OTC , without discussing it with his/her health care provider.

* Advise patient before taking Zileuton that elevation of liver enzyme is most serious side effect and that he/she must have liver function tests periodically. Instruct the patient to notify his/her health care provider if experiencing any signs or symptoms of liver disease: Flu-like symptoms; nausea; right upper quadrant pain; fatigue; lethargy; pruritus; jaundice.

* Instruct patient before taking Zileuton to notify health care provider if the use of short-acting bronchodilators increases or if more than the maximal number of inhalations of short-acting bronchodilators are needed.

* Caution patient before taking Zileuton to inform the health care provider if pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What if Overdose of Zileuton ?

If you think you or anyone else taken overdose of Zileuton , immediately telephone your doctor or contact your local or regional Poisons Information Centre Seek medical attention immediately. You may need urgent medical attention. Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, hematologic changes are may be the overdose symptoms of Zileuton .

What if Missed Dose of Zileuton ?

If you miss a dose of Zileuton medicine and you remember within an hour or so, take the dose immediately. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage Conditions for Zileuton :

* Zileuton Available only in PO form.

* Store Zileuton tablets at room temperature (20? to 25'C; 68? to 77'F).

* Keep Zileuton in tightly sealed container, protected from light.

* Zileuton May be taken with meals and at bed time