Respiratory disorders, such asasthma, can affect the way of life of adults and children. They are very frequentdiseases and of great recurrence in the population.
In this sense, the pharmaceutical industry created a drug calledmontelukast, in order toimprove the quality of life ofthose who suffer from these respiratory conditions.
For this reason, we present the following article where we describewhat this medicine is, we mention its main characteristics and for which health situations, your doctor can tell you.
Index
ToggleWhat is montelukast?
Montelukast is asynthetically manufactured medicine indicated for the treatment of somerespiratory conditionsin adults and children. Its active substance ismontelukast, a chemical compound antagonist of leukotriene receptors (hormones produced by white blood cells).
Note: Montelukast works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, preventingnarrowing and swellingof the airways in the lungs(1). It should be noted that leukotrienes also produceallergy symptoms. (2)
The commercial presentation of this medicine is intablets of 10 mgand its administration is administered orally with water and without chewing. The recommended dose in adults isone 10 mg tablet per day, preferably in the evening.
What is montelukast for?
As mentioned above, montelukast is indicatedto treat the symptoms of thefollowing conditions:
1. Asthma
Asthma attacks are respiratory conditions, which consist of the narrowing of the airways due to inflammation, which makes it difficult for airlungs. (3)
Of note: A meta-analysis concludes that montelukast significantly reduces mild, moderate, and some severe exacerbations in mild to moderate chronic asthma. (4)
2. Allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis consists of inflammation of the nasal mucosa and the symptoms are usually typical of a cold with nasal itching, sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion. (5)
You should know: A scientific review reveals that montelukast provides an effective and well-tolerated oral treatment for allergic airway inflammation in patients with allergic rhinitis. (6)
3. Exercise bronchospasm
Exercise-induced bronchospasm, or exercise asthma, occurs when the airways become inflamed after physical activity due to various factors. (7)
Note: Treatment with montelukast was shown to provide significant protection against exercise-induced asthma in a clinical trial . (8)
Montelukast Side Effects
Treatment with montelukast may cause some of the following side effects in certain patients: in certain patients:
- Possible allergic reaction from contact with some of the components of montelukast.
- Abdominal pain, headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness
- In rare cases, seizures may occur and mental health changes such as aggressive behavior and hostility have occurred in patients treated with montelukast.
- Upper respiratory infection.
- Possible manifestation of Churg-Strauss syndrome (inflammation of blood vessels), taking montelukast with steroid drugs.
Important: Inform your doctor or pharmacist, if you suffer during treatment , any of these signs or another that is not on the list.
Contraindications of montelukast
The use of this drug is contraindicated in any of the following cases:
- Hypersensitivity to any of the components of montelukast.
- In children under 15 years of age without the express consent of the doctor.
- Do not take montelukast to treat a sudden asthma attack.
- During pregnancy or breastfeeding.
You should know: Before starting a treatment with montelukast, it is advisable to Review your medical history with your doctor and keep this drug out of the reach of children.
Key Findings
- Montelukast is a synthetic medicine to treat the symptoms of asthma and seasonal rhinitis.
- Its active substance is montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist chemical compound.
- This medication prevents narrowing of the airways in the lungs by preventing bronchoconstriction.
- This medication must be administered under strict medical supervision.

University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.