Description

Montelukast 10mg: Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety

Montelukast 10mg is a prescription medication that is commonly used to help control asthma and some allergy symptoms. It is one of a group of medicines called leukotriene receptor antagonists. In simple terms, montelukast works by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals that can help inflame the airways and cause allergy symptoms.

What is montelukast 10mg?

Montelukast 10mg is prescribed by doctors to control asthma for long term. It can help to prevent symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Montelukast may also help prevent exercise-induced breathing problems in appropriate patients.

Montelukast can also be used to treat hay fever (allergic rhinitis), including a blocked, runny , itchy nose and sneezing . The FDA says montelukast should be used for allergic rhinitis only if other treatments have failed or are not tolerated.

How does montelukast work?

Montelukast 10mg works by blocking leukotriene receptors. This may then help reduce some of the inflammation and changes to the airways seen in asthma and allergies.

However, montelukast is not a rescue medication for sudden asthma attacks. Patients should take their prescribed rescue medicine when needed and follow the asthma action plan of their health care professional.

What is the use of montelukast 10 mg?

Montelukast is available in tablet, chewable tablet, and oral granule forms. The appropriate strength and schedule depend on the patient’s age and medical condition.

In most cases, the doctor will prescribe the 10 mg tablet for an adult. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not take extra doses. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose. Follow the directions given to you by your doctor or chemist.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medicines, montelukast 10mg can cause side effects. Commonly reported effects include itching, headache, stomach pain, heartburn, tiredness and diarrhoea.

The most important FDA boxed warning for montelukast is for serious mental health and behaviour-related effects. These can include agitation, anxiety, depression, unusual dreams, hallucinations, sleep problems, suicidal thoughts or other significant changes in behaviour. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Important Safety Information

Before using Montelukast 10mg, tell your doctor if you have medical history, allergies, liver problems, pregnancy or breastfeeding, all medicines or supplements you take. Your doctor can then decide if montelukast is right for you.

Do not start, stop or change your dose without professional medical advice. Get medical help right away if you have serious mood or behaviour changes while taking montelukast.

Conclusion

When used as directed, montelukast 10 mg can be an important weapon in the management of asthma and certain allergy symptoms. However, patients should be aware of the possible risks as well as benefits. Always use this medicine as directed by your healthcare professional. If you experience any side effects, consult your healthcare professional.