zileuton er
Zileuton (Zyflo CR) is used as an add-on therapy for long-term prevention and treatment of asthma. It cannot be used to treat immediate and emergency asthma attacks.
What is Zileuton (Zyflo CR)?
What is Zileuton (Zyflo CR) used for?
- Prevention and long-term treatment of asthma
How Zileuton (Zyflo CR) works
Zileuton (Zyflo CR) is a leukotriene synthesis inhibitor. It blocks the production of inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes. This relaxes the airways in your lungs and lowers mucus production, which helps you breathe easier.
Drug facts
Side effects of Zileuton (Zyflo CR)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Sinus inflammation (7%)
- Nausea (5%)
- Pain in the throat area (5%)
*Side effects for extended-release tablets
Zileuton (Zyflo CR) serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Liver problems
The following Zileuton (Zyflo CR) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
- Mood and behavior changes—anxiety, nervousness, confusion, hallucinations, irritability, hostility, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
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Pros and cons of Zileuton (Zyflo CR)
Pros
- Helps control your asthma and can reduce asthma attacks when other medications haven't worked for you
- Generally well-tolerated compared to steroid inhalers
- The extended-release form is only taken twice a day, whereas the immediate-release form is taken four times a day.
- The extended-release form is available as a generic version.
Cons
- Can lead to development of sleep problems or behavior changes
- Cannot be used in children younger than 12 years of age
- Cannot be used to treat an asthma attack
- Cannot be used if you have active liver disease or liver problems
Pharmacist tips for Zileuton (Zyflo CR)
- If you're taking the extended-release form of zileuton (Zyflo CR), take 2 tablets by mouth twice daily, one hour after morning and evening meals as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- For this medication to work correctly, don't split or crush the extended-release tablets.
- Don’t stop taking zileuton (Zyflo CR), especially if your asthma symptoms are getting better. This can mean that your asthma medication is doing its job.
- If you miss a dose, take the next dose at the scheduled time. Doubling the dose could increase your risk of experiencing side effects.
Common questions about Zileuton (Zyflo CR)
There have not been enough studies about zileuton (Zyflo CR) use in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to your unborn baby. You will need to discuss with your provider to see if zileuton (Zyflo CR) is safe for you.
Drinking alcohol while taking zileuton (Zyflo CR) can raise your risk of side effects, especially sleepiness. Try to limit the amount of alcohol you drink while taking this medication.
This medication should not be used to treat an acute or immediate asthma attack.
No, zileuton (Zyflo CR) is not FDA-approved to treat Alzheimer's disease. There have been studies to show that zileuton (Zyflo CR) might be able to help with some of the symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease, but more studies need to be done to confirm this.
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Risks and warnings for Zileuton (Zyflo CR)
Zileuton (Zyflo CR) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
LIVER PROBLEMS
- Risk factors: Active liver disease | Impaired liver function
Zileuton (Zyflo CR) can cause liver problems. Your provider will monitor your liver function before starting this medication, every 2 to 3 months for the first year, and then periodically afterward. Limit the alcohol you consume. If you experience significant nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, pale stools, or yellowing of skin or eyes, talk to your provider immediately. These can be signs of liver damage.
SLEEP PROBLEMS AND MOOD CHANGES
People taking zileuton (Zyflo CR) or other similar medications are at higher risk for sleep disorders, abnormal behavior, or changes in mood. If you notice changes in sleep, behavior, or mood, talk to your provider.
WORSENING ASTHMA SYMPTOMS
If you notice you are using your rescue inhaler more frequently, this could be a sign that your asthma is not well controlled with this medication. Talk to your provider about your symptoms and about alternative medications to treat your asthma.
Zileuton (Zyflo CR) dosage
Tablet| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 600mg | 120 tablets | $321.40 | $2.68 |
Typical dosage for Zileuton (Zyflo CR)
- Immediate-release tablets (Zyflo): The typical dose is 600 mg (1 tablet) by mouth four times a day with meals.
- Extended-release tablets (Zyflo CR): The typical dose is 1200 mg (2 tablets) by mouth twice daily within 1 hour after morning and evening meals.
How much does Zileuton (Zyflo CR) cost?
$321.40
What are alternatives to Zileuton (Zyflo CR)?
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