MedPath

Zileuton

Generic Name
Zileuton
Brand Names
Zyflo
Drug Type
Small Molecule
Chemical Formula
C11H12N2O2S
CAS Number
111406-87-2
Unique Ingredient Identifier
V1L22WVE2S

Overview

Leukotrienes are substances that induce numerous biological effects including augmentation of neutrophil and eosinophil migration, neutrophil and monocyte aggregation, leukocyte adhesion, increased capillary permeability, and smooth muscle contraction. These effects contribute to inflammation, edema, mucus secretion, and bronchoconstriction in the airways of asthmatic patients. Zileuton relieves such symptoms through its selective inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase, the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of leukotrienes from arachidonic acid. Specifically, it inhibits leukotriene LTB4, LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4 formation. Both the R(+) and S(-) enantiomers are pharmacologically active as 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors in in vitro systems. The immediate release tablet of Zileuton has been withdrawn from the US market.

Background

Leukotrienes are substances that induce numerous biological effects including augmentation of neutrophil and eosinophil migration, neutrophil and monocyte aggregation, leukocyte adhesion, increased capillary permeability, and smooth muscle contraction. These effects contribute to inflammation, edema, mucus secretion, and bronchoconstriction in the airways of asthmatic patients. Zileuton relieves such symptoms through its selective inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase, the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of leukotrienes from arachidonic acid. Specifically, it inhibits leukotriene LTB4, LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4 formation. Both the R(+) and S(-) enantiomers are pharmacologically active as 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors in in vitro systems. The immediate release tablet of Zileuton has been withdrawn from the US market.

Indication

For the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in adults and children 12 years of age and older.

Associated Conditions

  • Asthma
  • Chronic Asthma

Research Report

Published: May 13, 2025

Zileuton Report

Name: Zileuton Name (English): Zileuton DrugBank ID: DB00744 Type: Small Molecule CAS Number: 111406-87-2

Indication: Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in adults and children 12 years of age and older. May have applications in aspirin-induced asthma, exercise-induced asthma, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and certain dermatological conditions.

Mechanism of Action: Inhibits 5-lipoxygenase, the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of leukotrienes (LTB4, LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4). By reducing leukotriene production, zileuton helps to decrease inflammation, edema, mucus secretion, and bronchoconstriction in the airways.

Dosage:

  • Immediate-release tablets: 600 mg four times daily.
  • Extended-release tablets: 1.2 g twice daily (within 1 hour after morning and evening meals).

Contraindications: Active liver disease or serum aminotransferase concentrations ≥3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Known hypersensitivity to zileuton or any ingredient in the formulation.

Warnings and Precautions: Not for the relief of acute bronchospasm. May cause elevations in liver transaminases; monitoring is recommended. Use with caution in patients with a history of liver disease or excessive alcohol consumption. May interact with theophylline and warfarin, requiring dose adjustments and monitoring.

Adverse Reactions: Common side effects include headache, upper respiratory tract infections, diarrhea, myalgia, dyspepsia, nausea, and sinusitis. Less common but potentially serious adverse reactions include hepatotoxicity and hypersensitivity reactions. Neuropsychiatric events have been noted in postmarketing surveillance.

Continue reading the full research report

FDA Approved Products

Zileuton
Manufacturer:Rising Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Route:ORAL
Strength:600 mg in 1 1
Approved: 2023/03/13
NDC:64980-206
Zileuton
Manufacturer:Golden State Medical Supply, Inc.
Route:ORAL
Strength:600 mg in 1 1
Approved: 2023/03/20
NDC:51407-741
Zileuton
Manufacturer:Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Route:ORAL
Strength:600 mg in 1 1
Approved: 2022/10/14
NDC:31722-044
ZILEUTON
Manufacturer:Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Route:ORAL
Strength:600 1 in 1 1
Approved: 2020/08/13
NDC:68180-169
Zileuton
Manufacturer:Strides Pharma Science Limited
Route:ORAL
Strength:600 mg in 1 1
Approved: 2022/07/29
NDC:64380-189

Singapore Approved Products

No Singapore products found for this drug

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