Indications

Montilab (Montelukast) is indicated for:

• Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma.
• Acute prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB).
• Relief of symptoms of Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Rhinitis.

Pharmacology

Montelukast is a selective and orally active leukotriene receptor antagonist. It works by inhibiting the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CysLT1). Cysteinyl leukotrienes are inflammatory substances released in the body that contribute to the symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis, such as airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and inflammation. By blocking their receptors, Montelukast helps to prevent these effects.

Dosage & Administration

• Adults and adolescents (15 years and older): 10 mg tablet once daily.
• Children (6 to 14 years): 5 mg tablet once daily.
• Children (2 to 5 years): 4 mg tablet once daily.
• Children (6 months to 5 years): 4 mg oral granules once daily. The granules can be administered directly or mixed with a spoonful of cold water or soft food.
• Hepatic or Renal Insufficiency: No dosage adjustment is required for mild-to-moderate hepatic insufficiency or for renal insufficiency.
• Elderly: No dosage adjustment is required.

Interaction

Montilab has been used with other common asthma and allergy medications without an increase in adverse reactions. It does not have clinically significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of drugs like theophylline, prednisone, digoxin, or warfarin. However, potent cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers, such as phenobarbital or rifampin, can decrease the effectiveness of Montilab, and clinical monitoring is recommended when they are used together.

Contraindications

Montelukast is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of the product.

Side Effects

• Common: Diarrhea, fever, gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, nausea, vomiting, skin reactions, and upper respiratory tract infections.
• Uncommon: Anxiety, depression, dizziness, dry mouth, sleep disorders, and abnormal behavior.
• Rare: Angioedema, hallucinations, suicidal tendencies, and liver disorders.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Montelukast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as animal studies are not always predictive of human response and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Caution should be exercised when given to a nursing mother, as many drugs are excreted in human milk.

Precautions & Warnings

Montilab is not for use in the reversal of acute asthma attacks or status asthmaticus. Patients should have appropriate rescue medication available. Montilab should not be abruptly substituted for inhaled or oral corticosteroids. It is also not a monotherapy for exercise-induced bronchospasm. Patients with aspirin sensitivity should continue to avoid aspirin and other NSAIDs while taking Montilab.

Overdose Effects

In most cases of overdose, there were no adverse experiences. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain, drowsiness, headache, and vomiting. In the event of an overdose, supportive measures such as removing unabsorbed material from the stomach and providing clinical monitoring are recommended.

Therapeutic Class

Montilab is classified as a Leukotriene receptor antagonist.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool and dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.