Montelukast

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used to treat asthma as well as to relieve the stuffy, runny nose and sneezing caused by seasonal allergies and hay fever. Leukotrienes are chemicals that occur naturally in the body that cause inflammation during asthma and seasonal allergies. Montelukast helps in the attack by blocking leukotreine from binding to tissue receptors; it is the binding to these tissues that stimulates the cells to cause inflammation. Montelukast can reduce the frequency of asthma attack, if taken on a regular basis. However, Montelukast does not help during an asthma attack. Other quick action asthma drugs should be used during an acute attack.

Montelukast starts working in about 3-14 days.

MONTELUKAST CAUTION

Montelukast should NOT be used during an asthma attack.

MONTELUKAST SIDE EFFECTS

Common side effects of using Montelukast are headache, dizziness, upset stomach, allergic reaction, bronchitis, bruising, cough, drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, itching, rash, restlessness, nausea, and vomiting. Rare side effects of Montelukast include tooth pain, rash, fever and fatigue.

MONTELUKAST INTERACTIONS

Check with your physician before combining Montelukast with the following:

Phenobarbital

Rifampin

MONTELUKAST AND PREGNANCY

Montelukast should only be used during pregnancy if considered necessary. If you are or planning to become pregnant, inform your physician right away before using Montelukast.

To be on the safe side, nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking Montelukast.

MONTELUKAST DOSES

ADULTS AND CHILDREN (age 15 and up) 10 mg/evening.

CHILDREN (age 6-14) 5 mg chewable tablet/evening.

MONTELUKAST OVERDOSE

Symptoms of Montelukast overdose may include excessive thirst, fatigue, sensitivity to light, and stomach pain.

If you suspect Montelukast overdose, seek medical help right away.

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