Montelukast Tablet — Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & How It Works for Asthma

Montelukast Tablet: Complete Guide for Asthma & Allergies

Montelukast is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) used in the management of asthma and allergic rhinitis. By blocking the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT1, montelukast reduces bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and airway inflammation — making it a valuable addition to asthma management, particularly in patients who cannot tolerate or prefer alternatives to inhaled corticosteroids.

Mechanism of Action

Leukotrienes (LTC4, LTD4, LTE4) are potent inflammatory mediators released from mast cells, eosinophils, and basophils during allergic and asthmatic responses. They are approximately 1000 times more potent than histamine in causing bronchoconstriction. Montelukast selectively blocks the CysLT1 receptor, preventing leukotriene binding and thereby reducing bronchospasm, airway edema and inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and eosinophil recruitment to the airways.

Clinical Uses

1. Chronic Asthma

Montelukast is indicated as add-on therapy to inhaled corticosteroids in moderate persistent asthma, alternative to low-dose inhaled corticosteroids in mild persistent asthma, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) prevention, and aspirin-sensitive asthma (particularly effective in this subtype).

2. Allergic Rhinitis

Montelukast is effective for both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, addressing nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and itching. It can be used alone or combined with antihistamines for enhanced relief.

Dosage

Common Side Effects

Adults: Headache (18.4%), upper respiratory infection, cough, abdominal pain, dyspepsia.

Children: Headache, otitis media, pharyngitis, upper respiratory infection.

FDA Black Box Warning (2020): Neuropsychiatric events including agitation, depression, sleep disturbances, and suicidal thinking have been reported. Healthcare providers should monitor patients and discontinue if neuropsychiatric symptoms develop.

Montel Aarise by Aarise Pharmaceuticals

Aarise Pharmaceuticals manufactures Montel Aarise — montelukast sodium tablets at our WHO-GMP certified facility in Haridwar. Available in 10mg tablets for adults. View product details or contact us for distribution.