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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › OTHER SYSTEMIC DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › Leukotriene receptor antagonists
montelukast
R03DC03
Forms & Strengths
- Tablet: 10 mg
- Chewable Tablet: 4 mg, 5 mg
- Oral Granules: 4 mg/packet
Adult Dosing
- Asthma / Allergic Rhinitis: 10 mg orally once daily in the evening
Pediatric Dosing
- 6 to 14 years: 5 mg chewable tablet orally once daily in the evening
- 2 to 5 years: 4 mg chewable tablet or oral granules orally once daily in the evening
- 6 to 23 months (Asthma): 4 mg oral granules orally once daily in the evening
Indications
- Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in patients 12 months and older
- Relief of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients 2 years and older
- Relief of symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis in patients 6 months and older
- Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in patients 6 years and older
Mechanism of Action
- Selective leukotriene receptor antagonist that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene C4, D4, and E4 receptors
- Prevents airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and other respiratory inflammation associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to montelukast or any product components
Adverse Reactions
- Neuropsychiatric events (agitation, aggression, depression, sleep disturbances, suicidal thoughts and behavior)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Elevated transaminases
- Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and Churg-Strauss syndrome
Drug Interactions
- CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital) may decrease montelukast plasma concentrations
- Gemfibrozil (strong CYP2C8 inhibitor) may significantly increase systemic exposure of montelukast
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use