Montelukast
Uses of Montelukast
Montelukast is commonly used to treat exercise induced asthma, nasal allergy symptoms, sneezing and runny nose due to allergies. It is commonly used in asthma prevention.
How Montelukast Works
Montelukast is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist that exhibits its effect mainly by preventing airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and inflammatory process in people with asthma and allergy symptoms by inhibiting the effects of cysteinyl leukotrienes in the airways.
Side Effects of Montelukast
Headache, Dizziness, Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Nausea, Upper respiratory infection, Rash, Vomitting, Agitation, Anxiety
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Montelukast is metabolized by the biliary route. Dose adjustment is unnecessary for patients with kidney disease.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Taking Montelukast with alcohol may have additive effects in causing headache, dizziness, and nausea.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Montelukast may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have failed to show adverse effects on the fetus and there is limited human studies. However, benefits may outweigh the risk for usage in pregnant women. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Generally Safe
Montelukast usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Limited Data
Montelukast should be used with caution in patients with liver studies. No dose adjustment of Montelukast is needed in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. There is insufficient data on patients with severe hepatic impairment. please consult your doctor before using it.
Lactation Limited Data
Montelukast is excreted in the milk of animals. However, no data in human studies that showed the excretion in the breast milk of humans. Montelukast can be used only when benefits outweigh the risks while breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
