Indications
- Montelukast is used for controlling and preventing asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
- It’s taken before exercise to prevent bronchospasm and reduce the need for a quick-relief inhaler.
- Montelukast also relieves hay fever and allergic rhinitis symptoms (sneezing, stuffy/runny/itchy nose).
- It should be used for allergies when other medications are not an option or are ineffective.
- The medication needs regular use to be effective and doesn’t provide immediate relief for sudden asthma attacks.
- In such emergencies, a quick-relief inhaler should be used as prescribed.
- Montelukast works by blocking natural substances (leukotrienes) that can cause or worsen asthma and allergies.
- It helps ease breathing by reducing inflammation in the airways.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide before starting montelukast and each refill; ask questions if needed.
- Take the medication orally with or without food, following the doctor’s instructions based on age and condition.
- Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly; seek advice if a child can’t safely chew and swallow them.
- Take the medication at the same time daily, evening for asthma, morning or evening for allergies.
- If using it to prevent exercise-related breathing problems, take the dose at least 2 hours before exercise.
- Don’t exceed one dose in 24 hours; avoid pre-exercise doses if already taking it daily for asthma or allergies.
- Consult the doctor before adjusting or stopping the medication; use it regularly, even during symptom-free periods.
- It works over time and isn’t for sudden asthma attacks; keep a quick-relief inhaler with you.
- Seek medical help if asthma worsens and the quick-relief inhaler is ineffective.
- Inform the doctor promptly if symptoms worsen or if there are changes in rescue inhaler usage.
Side effects
- The medication is prescribed because its benefits outweigh potential side effects.
- Serious side effects are uncommon, but contact your doctor if you experience numbness, tingling, shooting pain, sinus pain, swelling, muscle weakness, or uncontrolled muscle movements.
- A severe allergic reaction is rare, but seek immediate medical help for symptoms like rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- The provided list of side effects is not exhaustive; inform your doctor or pharmacist about any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to montelukast or other substances; inquire about inactive ingredients that may cause reactions.
- Disclose your medical history, especially liver disease and mental/mood problems like anxiety, depression, or thoughts of suicide, before using the drug.
- Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescriptions, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Check for aspartame in chewable tablets; if you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or need to limit aspartame, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary; discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.
- The medication passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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