Montelukast: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Montelukast is a daily preventer medicine for asthma and nasal allergies. It comes as tablets for adults, chewable tablets for children and granules for younger children, and is sold in Pakistan under many brand names.
How Montelukast works
When you have asthma or an allergy, your body releases chemicals called leukotrienes that make the airways tight, swollen and full of mucus. Montelukast blocks the receptors these chemicals act on, so the airways stay calmer over time. It does not open the airways quickly, which is why it is a preventer and not a reliever.
What is Montelukast used for?
- Long-term control of asthma, usually alongside an inhaled preventer
- Preventing narrowing of the airways triggered by exercise
- Relieving symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing and a blocked or runny nose
Side effects of Montelukast
Not everyone gets side effects. The ones reported more often are:
- Headache
- Stomach pain, nausea or diarrhoea
- Cold-like symptoms such as a sore throat
- Tiredness
Montelukast has been linked with changes in mood and behaviour, including agitation, bad dreams, trouble sleeping, low mood and, rarely, thoughts of self-harm. Stop it and speak to a doctor promptly if you or your child notice any of these. Also get help for signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Precautions and warnings
- It will not stop an asthma attack that has already started. Always keep your reliever inhaler with you.
- Do not stop or reduce your other asthma medicines unless your doctor tells you to.
- Some chewable tablets contain aspartame, which people with phenylketonuria must avoid.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease or a history of depression or anxiety.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Montelukast
Can montelukast stop an asthma attack?
No. Montelukast works slowly to prevent symptoms. During an attack you need a fast-acting reliever inhaler such as salbutamol, and urgent medical help if the attack is severe.
Is montelukast safe for children?
Doctors prescribe montelukast to children in age-appropriate forms such as chewable tablets and granules. Parents should watch for sleep problems, nightmares or changes in behaviour and report them to the doctor.
Montelukast brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 190+ products containing Montelukast from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
