Generic & Brand Names
Generic: Montelukast
Common Brands: Singulair®, Montair®, Monas®, Telekast®
Drug Class
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist Anti-asthmatic Anti-allergic Mechanism of Action
Montelukast selectively blocks cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT1) receptors, reducing airway edema, bronchoconstriction, and inflammation associated with asthma and allergies.
Indications
- Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of bronchial asthma
- Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
- Allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial)
Dosage (General)
- Adults & ≥15 years: 10 mg once daily (evening)
- Children 6–14 years: 5 mg once daily
- Children 2–5 years: 4 mg once daily
- Children 6–23 months: 4 mg once daily (granules)
Not for acute asthma attacks.
Side Effects
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Sleep disturbance or behavioral changes (rare)
Contraindications & Precautions
- Hypersensitivity to montelukast
- Use with caution in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms
- Do not substitute for inhaled corticosteroids abruptly
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe (Category B). Use if benefit outweighs risk.
Key Notes
- Once-daily oral dosing improves compliance
- Useful in asthma with allergic rhinitis
- No role in acute bronchospasm relief