Montelukast/Singulair Tablets

Montelukast tablets are a prescription medication used for asthma treatment. Other uses of Montelukast include prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction; relieve hay fever and other allergies. Montelukast may be used with other medications as a combination therapy prescribed by your doctor.

Montelukast is from a class of drugs known as leukotriene receptor antagonists, which are used to decrease inflammation and nasal congestion. These drugs keep the airways to the lungs open to prevent reactions of conditions such as asthma and seasonal or year-round allergies. They are also used to prevent breathing problems caused by strenuous activities such as exercising.

Some benefits of Montelukast include:

• Exercise induced bronchoconstriction occurs when lung airways narrow due to exercise, causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Montelukast can be used to prevent this from happening.
• Prevents and controls asthma symptoms.
• May decrease the frequency of usage of quick-relief inhalers.
• Provides relief in hay fever, seasonal and year-round allergies.

Montelukast asthma medication needs to be taken orally, preferably at the same time every day. It can be taken with or without food as directed by your physician. The dosage prescribed is based on age, medical condition and many other factors considered by your doctor.

Montelukast comes in two forms: chewable tablets and normal ones. In case you are taking the chewable form, you must chew them thoroughly before swallowing. Chewable tablets should not be swallowed whole.

If Montelukast has been prescribed for your asthma or both asthma and allergies, take your dose in the evening. If you are only taking it for allergies, you may take it either in the morning or the evening. Montelukast may be prescribed for breathing problems during and after exercise. In this case, take the tablet at least 2 hours before exercising. However, do not double dose if you have already taken the tablet for your asthma or allergy.

The intake should not be stopped without the recommendation of your doctor. The tablets are used to keep asthma under control and work over time. The effects of the medication show up after regular use and it is not for relieving sudden asthma attacks. You will still need your quick-relief inhaler in case of sudden asthma attacks or breathing problems.

Montelukast comes in different strengths including 4mg, 5mg, and 10 mg tablets. The typical dosage for adults is one 10 mg tablet a day to be taken in the evening. For children, the dosages might vary. The typical dose for children ages 6-14 years is one 10 mg chewable tablet a day and for ages 2-5 years is one 4 mg chewable tablet a day.

The dosage information will be given to you by your doctor depending on your age, medical condition and severity of the condition. Ensure to take the medicine exactly as prescribed to prevent side effects.

Side Effects

Serious side effects of Montelukast include:

• Numbness, tingling or sharp pain in arms or legs
• Swelling or sinus pain
• Muscle weakness
• Stuttering
• Uncontrolled muscle movement
• Serious allergic reactions that cause rashes, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing and more.

If you notice any of these serious symptoms while you are on Montelukast, contact your doctor right away. Since every individual reacts differently to medications, this may not be the complete list of side effects. If you feel any other adverse symptoms from the medicine, consult your physician.

Warnings

Some things to consider before taking Montelukast are:

• Montelukast is not appropriate for relieving sudden asthma attacks. Severe asthma attacks such as status asthmaticus cannot be treated with this medicine or even an inhaler. In such a situation, you must contact ER right away. Do not use Montelukast as a substitute for oral or inhaled corticosteroids.
• Montelukast may increase the risk of mental health problems including agitation, aggressive behaviour, anxiousness, depression and more. The adverse reactions may also include hallucinations, insomnia, vivid dreams, and suicidal thoughts in some patients.
• The medicine may increase the of immune system problems such as systemic eosinophilia with vasculitis, and Churg-Strauss syndrome.
• Tell your doctor about your allergies before taking Montelukast to avoid allergic reactions.
• Tell your medical history to your doctor especially if you suffer from liver disease and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Precautions

While taking Montelukast, you should inform your doctor or dentist before any surgical procedures are performed on you.

If you are pregnant or are planning to have a child, consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this. The same goes for if you intend to breastfeed while on the medication. This medicine can pass through breast milk, so your doctor’s consultation is necessary.

High-Risk Groups

High Risk groups for Montelukast include:

• People who are allergic to the ingredients.
• People allergic to NSAIDs.
• Pregnant women.
• Women who are breastfeeding
• Senior citizens
• Individuals with Mental health issues.
• People with liver problems.

Montelukast may be indicated for the treatment of:

• Seasonal and year-round allergies
• Exercise Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)
• Asthma