Uses of Montelukast

Montelukast is used to treat is used to treat and prevent the signs and symptoms of asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis. It can also be used to prevent bronchospasm (narrowing of airways) triggered due to exercise.

Therapeutic Category

Montelukast: Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

How Montelukast works

Montelukast effectively controls the symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis, where montelukast acts by blocking the release of certain chemicals (leukotrienes) in the respiratory tract that triggers the allergic and inflammatory response. It also prevents the narrowing of the airway tract which makes breathing easier.

Common side effects of Montelukast

• stomach pain
• headache
• upper respiratory tract infection
• diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting
• skin rash or itching
• fever

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience, any signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience behaviour and mood related changes (anxiety, aggressive behaviour or hostility, depression, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations)
• If you experience fits
• If you experience increased bleeding tendency
• If you experience feeling shaky (tremor)
• If you experience strong, fast, or irregular heartbeats
• If you experience flu-like symptoms accompanied with pins and needles, numbness of arms or legs, worsening of pulmonary symptoms, and/or rash

Health Tips for Montelukast

• Take the medication at the same time every day to help you remember to take it
• Avoid allergens or triggers that can worsen your asthma symptoms
• Drive or operate the machinery cautiously as this medicine may cause drowsiness