What's Montelukast?
Montelukast (also known as Singulair) is an asthma medication that can be used to treat allergies and exercise-induced constriction. This medication is known as an oral leukotriene antagonist. It blocks the activity of leukotrienes in the body, substances that are responsible for inflammation and can cause asthma symptoms. You can take Montelukast with or without food once daily.
Montelukast uses
Clinical trials have shown that montelukast is effective in improving the function of the lungs and decreasing asthma flare-ups. Montelukast was also found to reduce symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Montelukast reduced the severity of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction symptoms in one study .
Montelukast is used primarily for the following:
- Asthma treatment for children and adults aged 6 years or older
- Treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis for children and adults aged 2 years or older
- Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction for children and adults six years old and over
Montelukast's Benefits
Montelukast's primary advantage is its ability to reduce asthma flare ups, as well as other symptoms that are associated with the condition. Montelukast has also been shown to reduce symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis such as nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing. Montelukast also has the ability to reduce symptoms associated with exercise-induced asthma.
Montelukast Side Effects
Montelukast is most commonly associated with headache, dizziness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, Diarrhea and nausea. The side effects of montelukast include fever, upper respiratory infections, sinus infection and sore throat. Anaphylaxis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome are rare side effects.
Montelukast can also be associated with psychotic adverse events such as Depression , aggression and irritability. It is important that you consult with your healthcare provider before starting montelukast.
Montelukast Experts and Professionals' Opinions
Experts are unanimous in their belief that montelukast can be used to treat asthma and allergies. It also works well for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. They caution, however, that montelukast should be used only after consultation with a healthcare practitioner and should not replace other treatment options.
Experts recommend that montelukast patients be closely monitored for signs of psychotic adverse events such as aggression, depression, suicidal thinking, and irritability.
Montelukast: How do you get started?
It is crucial to talk with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of montelukast before you start taking it. The best dose for you will depend on your healthcare provider. Montelukast should be taken once daily with or without food.
Montelukast comes in chewable and tablet forms. The chewable and tablet versions can be taken whole. Granules, on the other hand can be combined with soft foods (e.g. Orally, you can take applesauce. You should never crush, chew, or dissolve granules in liquid.
Although Montelukast can be purchased over-the-counter in certain countries, it is not available in all countries. When taking montelukast, it is crucial to adhere to the directions given by your doctor.
Conclusion
Montelukast can be used to treat asthma and allergies. It is also effective for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Clinical trials have shown that it is effective at reducing the symptoms of these conditions. Although there may be side effects, montelukast has many benefits that outweigh any potential risks. It is important that you discuss with your healthcare provider the risks and benefits of montelukast before taking it.