What is Montelukast?
Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA), which is taken as a tablet and used for long-term treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis. Unlike inhalers, Montelukast is swallowed and acts systemically.
Leukotrienes are inflammatory drugs that play an important role in asthma. Montelukast blocks its effect and thus reduces inflammation, mucus production and bronchospasm.
Known brand names are Singulair®, Montelukast dura® and numerous generics. It is approved for adults and children from 2 years old.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Montelukast
Montelukast blocks the Cysteinyl-Leukotriene receptors:
Active mechanism: 1. leukotrienes (LTC4, LTD4, LTE4) are released in allergic reactions Two. They cause bronchoconstriction, slime production and inflammation 3. Montelukast blocks the CysLT1 receptor 4. The effect of leukotrienes is eliminated
Effects:
- Bronchodilatation (within hours)
- Inflammation inhibition in the airways
- Reduced mucus production
- Reduction of eosinophiles in the airways
Time:
- Entry into effect: within a few hours
- Full effect: after a few days of regular intake
- duration of action: 24 hours (once daily administration)
Who is it suitable for?
Montelukast is suitable for:
- Additional therapy for asthma (to ICS)
- Load-induced asthma
- Allergic asthma with allergic rhinitis
- Children from 2 years
- Patients who cannot apply inhalers correctly
Application areas:
- Light persistent asthma (alternative to low dose ICS)
- Moderate asthma as an add-on to ICS
- Prophylaxis of stress asthma
Not suitable as:
- Sole therapy for moderate to severe asthma
- Acute treatment of asthma attacks
- Replacement for inhalative corticoids in most patients
Available Dosages
Adults and young people aged 15 and over:
- 10 mg film tablet once a day
**Children 6-14 years
- 5 mg of chewing tablet once a day
Children 2-5 years:
- 4 mg of chewing tablets or granules once a day
** Always take in the evening as leukotriene production is highest at night.
How to Take
Intake:
- Once a day in the evening, regardless of meals
- Take film tablets with water
- Chewing tablets, not swallow
- Mix granules directly on the tongue or in soft food
Important notes:
- Continue to exercise freedom of appeal
- Do not drop abruptly
- No replacement for emergency inhaler
- Forget: take next dose at normal time
Contraindications
Do not apply at:
- hypersensitivity to Montelukast or components
- phenylketonuria (includes aspartame)
Preview at:
- Psychiatric predisorders
- liver failure (dose adjustment usually not necessary)
pregnant: Limited data. Use only for clear indication. Inhalative corticoids are better studied during pregnancy.
Style time: Go to breast milk. Benefit Risk Balance.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Headaches
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- nausea
Occasionally:
- Skin rash
- Squeeze
- Mouth dryness
- fatigue
Selten but important (neuropsychiatric effects):
- Sleep disorders, nightmares
- Unrest, agitation
- Depressive detunement
- Changes in behaviour in children
- Suicidal thoughts (very rare, but FDA warning)
Important: In case of mood changes, sleep disorders or behavioral disorders, inform the doctor immediately!
Interactions
Reactions:
- CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 inductors (Phenobarbital, Rifampicin) – can reduce Montelukast levels
- Gemfibrozil – can increase Montelukast mirror
No relevant interaction with:
- Inhalative corticoids (sense combination)
- Beta-2-agonists
- Antihistamines
- Oral contraceptives
** Montelukast has a beneficial interaction profile overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Montelukast right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.