Zileuton
Asthma
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
5-Lipoxygenase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Zileuton
Summary
Zileuton is used for the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in adults and children who are 12 years and older. It is not used for treating acute asthma attacks.
Zileuton works by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-lipoxygenase, which is responsible for the formation of leukotrienes. These are substances that cause inflammation and bronchoconstriction in the airways. By reducing leukotriene production, Zileuton helps control asthma symptoms.
The usual daily dose of Zileuton for adults and children 12 years and older is 600 mg taken four times a day, totaling 2400 mg per day. It can be taken with or without food.
Common side effects of Zileuton include headache, nausea, and diarrhea. Serious adverse effects can include liver enzyme elevations and neuropsychiatric events such as mood changes or sleep disturbances.
Zileuton is not recommended for patients with active liver disease or elevated liver enzymes. It is also not used for acute asthma attacks. Patients should be monitored for liver function and neuropsychiatric events. Caution is advised when co-administering with theophylline, warfarin, or propranolol due to potential drug interactions.
Indications and Purpose
How does Zileuton work?
Zileuton works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, which is responsible for the formation of leukotrienes. These substances contribute to inflammation and constriction in the airways, so by reducing their formation, Zileuton helps alleviate asthma symptoms.
Is Zileuton effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Zileuton is effective in the treatment of asthma. In trials, patients taking Zileuton experienced significant improvements in lung function and a reduction in the need for corticosteroid therapy compared to those taking a placebo.
What is Zileuton?
Zileuton is used to prevent asthma symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath. It works by inhibiting the formation of leukotrienes, substances that cause inflammation and constriction in the airways. This helps reduce asthma symptoms but does not cure the condition.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Zileuton?
Zileuton is used for the chronic treatment of asthma and should be taken regularly as prescribed by a doctor. The duration of use is typically long-term, as it helps manage asthma symptoms but does not cure the condition.
How do I take Zileuton?
Zileuton can be taken with or without food. The regular tablet is taken four times a day, while the extended-release tablet is taken twice a day, within one hour after meals. There are no specific food restrictions, but alcohol consumption should be discussed with a doctor.
How long does it take for Zileuton to start working?
Zileuton may take several days or longer to show its full benefits. It is important to continue taking it regularly as prescribed, even if you do not feel immediate improvement.
How should I store Zileuton?
Store Zileuton at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
What is the usual dose of Zileuton?
The usual daily dose of Zileuton for adults is 600 mg taken four times a day, totaling 2400 mg per day. For children 12 years and older, the same dosage applies. Zileuton is not recommended for children under 12 years of age due to the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Zileuton with other prescription drugs?
Zileuton can interact with theophylline, warfarin, and propranolol, leading to increased levels of these drugs in the blood. Patients should have their drug levels monitored and dosages adjusted as necessary when taking these medications with Zileuton.
Can Zileuton be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Zileuton and its metabolites are excreted in rat milk, but it is unknown if they are excreted in human milk. Due to potential risks, a decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or the drug, considering its importance to the mother.
Can Zileuton be taken safely while pregnant?
Zileuton is categorized as Pregnancy Category C, indicating that it should only be used if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. There are no adequate human studies, so consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Zileuton?
Drinking alcohol while taking Zileuton can increase the risk of liver damage. It is important to discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor while on this medication to ensure safe use.
Is Zileuton safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients, especially females over 65, may be at an increased risk for liver enzyme elevations while taking Zileuton. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended, and any signs of liver dysfunction should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Who should avoid taking Zileuton?
Zileuton is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or elevated liver enzymes. It should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks. Patients should be monitored for liver function and neuropsychiatric events. Alcohol consumption should be discussed with a doctor.
