Montelukast Sodium: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Labels:
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist
Montelukast Sodium
Rx Only
Therapeutic ClassLeukotriene Receptor Antagonist
Common Dose10 mg once daily (adults)
Max / 24h10 mg
PregnancyCategory B
Indications ▼
Chronic asthma management (prevention of asthma attacks)
Allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial)
Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Selective leukotriene D4 receptor antagonist in the lungs and bronchial tubes; reduces inflammation, bronchoconstriction, mucus production, and airway edema.
Pharmacokinetics: Oral absorption peak 3–4 hr; extensively metabolized in liver via CYP3A4 and CYP2C9; excreted mainly in feces; half-life 2.7–5.5 hr.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults & Adolescents (≥15 yr) | 10 mg once daily in the evening | 10 mg |
| Children 6–14 yr | 5 mg once daily | 5 mg |
| Children 2–5 yr | 4 mg once daily (chewable) | 4 mg |
| Children 6 mo–2 yr | 4 mg once daily (granules) | 4 mg |
Take in the evening with or without food. Do not exceed recommended dose.
Side Effects ▼
Common: Headache, abdominal pain, cough, dizziness
Occasional: Rash, fever, fatigue
Rare: Mood changes, suicidal thoughts, liver enzyme elevation
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to montelukast or any excipients
Not recommended for acute asthma attacks
Drug Interaction ▼
Phenobarbital, Rifampin: may reduce montelukast plasma levels
CYP3A4/CYP2C9 inhibitors: may increase plasma concentration
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Category B: animal studies show no risk, human data limited
Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Asthma Control: Reduces frequency and severity of asthma attacks and nighttime symptoms.
Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: Prevents bronchospasm triggered by physical activity.
Allergic Rhinitis: Improves nasal symptoms and reduces need for antihistamines.
Safety: Well-tolerated; neuropsychiatric events are rare but should be monitored.
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C; protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Patient Counseling Points ▼
How to take: Take once daily in the evening with or without food
Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered, do not double dose
Possible side effects: Headache, abdominal pain, dizziness; report mood changes
Monitor: Asthma symptoms, liver function if prolonged use
Drug interactions: Inform doctor about concurrent medications like rifampin or phenobarbital
Lifestyle advice: Avoid known allergens, maintain inhaler therapy, follow asthma action plan
Pregnancy and safety: Use only if advised by physician
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Bangladesh (Local Brands):
Global / International Brands:
Monas
Montair
The ACME Laboratories Ltd
Montair
Singulair
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.
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