Indications
Pranlukast Hydrate is used for the long-term control and prevention of bronchial asthma symptoms. It is also used for allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in some countries. It is not a reliever and does not stop an asthma attack that has already started.
How It Works
Pranlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. Leukotrienes are substances released in the airways during allergy and asthma that cause swelling, mucus and tightening of the airway muscles. Pranlukast blocks their action, so the airways stay more open and less inflamed.
Dosage and Administration
Take it every day, even when you feel well, exactly as prescribed. The dry syrup form is mainly for children, and the dose is worked out by the doctor from the child’s body weight. Mix the granules with a little water just before giving, and give in two divided doses, usually after breakfast and after the evening meal. Adults usually take capsules as prescribed. Keep using your reliever inhaler for sudden symptoms.
Interactions
- Warfarin: its effect may be increased, so blood clotting should be checked.
- Medicines broken down by the CYP3A4 liver enzyme, such as Ketoconazole, Itraconazole or Erythromycin, may raise Pranlukast levels.
- Do not stop inhaled or oral steroids suddenly when starting Pranlukast; any reduction should be gradual and under medical advice.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Pranlukast or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Possible effects include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, rash, itching, headache and sleepiness. Rarely it can affect the liver (raised liver enzymes, jaundice), lower white blood cells, or cause behaviour changes. Very rarely, when steroids are reduced, a condition with blood vessel inflammation (Churg-Strauss syndrome) has been reported.
Get urgent medical help if you have breathing that is getting worse, swelling of the face or throat, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual bruising or bleeding, numbness or tingling with a rash and fever, or a severe skin reaction.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Safety in pregnancy is not established; use only if your doctor thinks the benefit outweighs the risk, as well-controlled asthma is important in pregnancy. It may pass into breast milk; breastfeeding is generally avoided during treatment unless the doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
- Not for treating an acute asthma attack.
- Use with care in liver disease; liver tests may be checked.
- Watch for mood or behaviour changes, especially in children, and report them.
- Do not reduce other asthma medicines without your doctor.
Overdose
Overdose may cause stomach upset, headache or drowsiness. Contact a doctor or poison centre.
Therapeutic Class
Leukotriene receptor antagonist (anti-asthmatic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the pack closed to protect from moisture.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.