Zileuton is used to prevention and long-term treatment of asthma.
Take Zileuton exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by the doctor.
You may take Zileuton with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
If you are taking the modified-release/sustain-release/chrono-release form of Zileuton (usually labeled as “XL”, “ER”, “CR”), swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew or crush the tablet.
Zileuton must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by your doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have liver disease as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Zileuton will not relieve sudden asthma attacks. Your doctor will provide you other medicines for sudden attacks. If you are using your medicines for sudden asthma attacks more often than usual, alert your doctor immediately.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will also order regular blood tests to make sure that your liver function is normal.
Zileuton may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, nausea, diarrhoea, indigestion, stomach pain, muscle pain, and weakness.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, tiredness and itching.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for high blood pressure e.g. propanolol
- medicines for allergy e.g. terfenadine
- other medicines for asthma e.g.theophylline
- warfarin (a blood-thinning medicine)
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.