Montelukast
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Asthma
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Montelukast
Summary
Montelukast is used for the prevention and chronic treatment of asthma, prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, and relief of symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.
Montelukast works by blocking leukotriene receptors in your body. Leukotrienes cause inflammation, constriction of airways, and mucus production. By blocking these, Montelukast reduces asthma symptoms and allergic reactions.
For adults and adolescents 15 years and older, the usual dose is 10 mg once daily. For children aged 6 to 14 years, it's typically 5 mg once daily, and for children aged 2 to 5 years, the dose is 4 mg once daily.
Common side effects include headache, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Serious adverse effects can include mental health changes like depression and suicidal thoughts.
Montelukast may cause serious mental health changes, including suicidal thoughts and behavior. It's not for treating sudden asthma attacks. If you experience any changes in behavior, contact your doctor immediately.
Indications and Purpose
How does Montelukast work?
Montelukast works by blocking leukotriene receptors in the body. Leukotrienes are chemicals that cause inflammation, constriction of airways, and mucus production. By inhibiting these substances, Montelukast helps reduce asthma symptoms and allergic reactions.
Is Montelukast effective?
Clinical trials have shown that Montelukast effectively improves lung function and reduces asthma symptoms. It also helps manage symptoms of allergic rhinitis. The medication works by blocking substances in the body that cause inflammation and constriction of airways.
What is Montelukast?
Montelukast is used to prevent asthma attacks and manage symptoms of allergic rhinitis. It works by blocking leukotrienes, substances in the body that cause inflammation and constriction of airways. This helps improve breathing and reduce allergy symptoms.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Montelukast?
Montelukast is typically used as a long-term treatment for asthma and allergic rhinitis. It is important to continue taking it even if symptoms improve, as it helps manage the condition over time. Always follow your doctor's guidance on the duration of use.
How do I dispose of Montelukast?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Montelukast?
Montelukast can be taken with or without food. It should be taken at the same time each day for consistency. There are no specific food restrictions, but always follow your doctor's instructions regarding diet and medication use.
How long does it take for Montelukast to start working?
Montelukast typically starts working within one day of starting treatment. However, it may take a few weeks to notice the full benefits. Consistent daily use is important for managing symptoms effectively.
How should I store Montelukast?
Store Montelukast in its original container at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom, and ensure the container is tightly closed to maintain the medication's effectiveness.
What is the usual dose of Montelukast?
For adults and adolescents 15 years and older, the usual dose of Montelukast is 10 mg once daily. For children aged 6 to 14 years, the dose is typically 5 mg once daily. For children aged 2 to 5 years, the dose is 4 mg once daily. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosing.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Montelukast with other prescription drugs?
Montelukast may interact with drugs like phenobarbital and rifampin, which can affect its metabolism. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions and ensure the safe use of Montelukast.
Can Montelukast be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Montelukast is present in human milk, but available data do not suggest a significant risk to breastfed infants. The benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's need for Montelukast and any potential effects on the infant.
Can Montelukast be taken safely while pregnant?
Available data from studies have not established a risk of major birth defects with Montelukast use during pregnancy. However, it should only be used if clearly needed. Always consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks before using Montelukast during pregnancy.
Does Montelukast have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects that can occur with medication use. For Montelukast, some concerning adverse effects include headache, stomach pain, and dizziness. These are not very common but can happen. Rarely, Montelukast can cause serious effects like mood changes or allergic reactions, which need immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or unusual symptoms, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping the medicine.
Does Montelukast have any safety warnings?
Montelukast has safety warnings related to potential mood changes, including anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. These warnings are in place because some people have experienced these symptoms while taking Montelukast. It's important to monitor for any changes in mood or behavior and report them to a healthcare provider immediately. Additionally, if you have a history of mental health issues, discuss this with your doctor before starting Montelukast.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Montelukast?
Most people tolerate Montelukast well, and occasional alcoholic drinks should not affect the way this medicine works. There are no well-established interactions between Montelukast and alcohol that would interfere with the medicine's effectiveness or cause harm. However, it's always a good idea to drink alcohol in moderation and be aware of how your body responds when combining it with any medication.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Montelukast?
Montelukast is used to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, meaning it helps improve the ability to exercise by reducing breathing difficulties during physical activity. It should be taken at least 2 hours before exercise for optimal effect.
Is it safe to stop Montelukast?
Montelukast is often used for long-term management of chronic conditions like asthma or allergies. Stopping it suddenly might lead to a return of symptoms, such as increased asthma attacks or allergy symptoms. There are no known withdrawal symptoms, but the condition it manages could worsen. It's important to consult with a doctor before stopping Montelukast to ensure it's safe and to discuss alternative treatments if needed.
Is Montelukast addictive?
Montelukast is not addictive and has no known potential for dependence. There are no behaviors or warning signs of addiction associated with this medicine. You can take Montelukast as prescribed by your healthcare provider without worrying about addiction. Always follow your doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns you may have about your medication.
Is Montelukast safe for the elderly?
Montelukast is generally safe for elderly patients, with no specific dosage adjustments required. However, as with any medication, elderly patients should be monitored for side effects, and any unusual symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider.
What are the most common side effects of Montelukast?
A side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medicine. Common side effects of Montelukast include headache, stomach pain, and dizziness. These are not very frequent but can occur. It's important to note that new symptoms might appear when starting any new medicine, and they may not be related to the medicine itself. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Montelukast if you experience any side effects.
Who should avoid taking Montelukast?
Montelukast may cause serious mental health changes, including suicidal thoughts and behavior. It is not for treating sudden asthma attacks. Patients should be aware of potential neuropsychiatric events and report any changes in behavior to their doctor immediately.
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