Montelukast

Introduction

Montelukast (INN) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) used in the management of asthma and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. leukotrienes are chemicals your body releases when you breathe in an allergen (such as pollen). These chemicals cause swelling in your lungs and tightening of the muscles around your airways, which can lead to asthma symptoms. Montelukast blocks leukotrienes from attaching to their receptors, which helps to prevent these symptoms. It is available as a generic medication.

Composition

Sodium Montelukast Sodium is a white to off-white crystalline powder that is insoluble in water. The chemical structure is: C₁₇H₂₃ClNNaO₃S Molecular Weight: 504.9 CAS Number: 151767-02-1

Usage

Montelukast is a medication that is used to treat asthma and seasonal allergies. It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, a substance in the body that causes asthma and allergy symptoms. Montelukast is available as a tablet, granule, and oral suspension.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of montelukast are headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, upset stomach, and cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sinus pain, and sore throat. Other side effects include:

• Joint pain

• Muscle pain

• Stomach pain

• Heartburn

• Drowsiness

• Fatigue

• Rash

• Itching

• Shortness of breath

• Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

• Hoarseness

• Difficulty swallowing

• Wheezing

• Hives

• Blisters

• Peeling skin

• Fever

• Cough

• Sore throat

• runny or stuffy nose

• headache

• tired feeling

• nausea

• diarrhea

• stomach pain

• joint or muscle pain

Precautions

-Do not take more or less of this medication than prescribed.

-Do not take this medication with food. Take it on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

-Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or crush.

-If you are taking the chewable form of this medication, chew thoroughly before swallowing.

-If you are taking the oral granules, mix them with 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of baby formula or breast milk, or soft food such as mashed bananas, applesauce, rice, or ice cream. Do not mix with any other food or liquids. Use within 15 minutes of mixing.

-If you are using the Singulair® RediTabs® disintegrating tablets, do not remove the tablet from the blister pack until you are ready to take it. To remove the tablet, place it on your tongue and allow it to dissolve, then swallow. Do not chew or crush.

-If you are using the Singulair® Oral Granules 4-mg packet, empty the entire contents of the packet onto a spoon. Mix the granules with 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of baby formula or breast milk, or soft food such as mashed bananas, applesauce, rice, or ice cream. Do not mix with any other food or liquids. Use within 15 minutes of mixing.

-The 4-mg oral granules can also be mixed with the contents of a 4-mg chewable tablet. Do not chew the tablet before mixing.

-If you are using the Singulair® Oral Granules 4-mg sachet, empty the entire contents of the sachet onto a spoon. Mix the granules with 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of baby formula or breast milk, or soft food such as mashed bananas, applesauce, rice, or ice cream. Do not mix with any other food or liquids. Use within 15 minutes of mixing.

Dosage

There is no definitive answer to this question as the suggested dosage of Montelukast will vary depending on the individual's medical history and condition. However, the general suggested dosage for Montelukast is 10 mg once daily.

Storage

Montelukast should be stored at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C).

Interactions

There are no known interactions of Montelukast with other drugs.

User Reviews

Reviews of Montelukast by users are generally positive. Many users report that it effectively relieves their symptoms, with few side effects. Some users have reported mild stomach upset or headache as the only side effects. Overall, users report that Montelukast is an effective medication for treating allergies and asthma.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)