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Montelukast is an oral anti-asthmatic drug. This substance is anti-inflammatory and stops bronchospasms. Montelukast can be used in the treatment of bronchial asthma and as a prophylactic treatment of exercise-induced asthma. In addition, it can be an auxiliary element in the treatment of allergic seasonal rhinitis.
Montelukast is a substance used in anti-asthma and antiallergic treatments. This substance belongs to anti-leukotriene drugs. Montelukast is recommended as an add-on medication to help control asthma and allergy in patients who fail to achieve adequate results from inhaled corticosteroids and short-term beta-agonists. What should I know about montelukast?
Montelukast – action
Montelukast is an asthma and allergy medication. It has an anti-inflammatory effect. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the leukotriene receptors found in the airways. This means that substances that are responsible for inflammation are blocked, because these receptors are responsible for the formation of inflammation in a given place. As a result, montelukast soothes inflammation, reduces bronchospasm, has a positive effect on the patency of the airways and lung ventilation.
Montelukast – indications
Montelukast is recommended for regular and long-term use by people with asthma and COPD. The drug is also indicated for the prophylaxis of bronchospasms as a consequence of exercise. Montelukast is also used to treat the mild symptoms of allergic rhinitis called hay fever. It can also be used as an additional element in the therapy with other anti-inflammatory drugs, i.e. corticosteroids. There are situations when montelukast can be used to treat asthma in place of corticosteroids.
Montelukast – side effects
Certain precautions should be taken when using montelukast. Remember that the drug is not suitable for stopping acute asthma attacks. Montelukast is well tolerated and any side effects disappear after a while.
Occasionally, montelukast may cause changes in the behavior and well-being of a person being treated. You may even feel depressed and have unsafe thoughts or even attempt suicide.
Symptoms such as agitation, sudden aggressive behavior, anxiety, sleep problems, hallucinations and sleepwalking should arouse anxiety. When we notice anything disturbing, contact a doctor as soon as possible.
Montelukast – side effects
Side effects after the use of montelukast include upper respiratory tract infections, bleeding (including nosebleeds), hypersensitivity, including anaphylactic reactions, strange dreams and nightmares, insomnia, hepatic eosinophilic infiltrates, agitation, irritability, anxiety, restlessness , tremor and convulsions, depression (suicidal ideation and attempted suicide), somnolence dizziness, palpitations, paraesthesia and hypoesthesia, diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, indigestion, vomiting, higher than usual levels of serum transaminases, hepatitis, edema angioedema, bruising, itching, hives, erythema nodosum, rash, joint and muscle pain, muscle spasms, feeling unwell, fatigue, feeling weak, swelling and fever.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.