Uses

Montelukast helps to reduce inflammation.

It may be used to prevent asthma attacks in adults and children at least 2 years old.

Montelukast is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (a narrowing of the air passages in the lungs due to exercise that is also known as exercise-induced asthma) in adults and children who are at least 6 years old.

For adults and children at least 2 years old with symptoms of seasonal or year-round (perennial) allergies, montelukast may be considered when other treatments have not worked.

If you already take montelukast regularly to prevent asthma or allergy symptoms, do not take an extra dose to treat exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

Montelukast is not a fast-acting rescue medicine for asthma attacks and needs to be taken daily to work properly.

Montelukast side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to montelukast: hives, blisters, severe itching; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your doctor right away if you have signs of blood vessel inflammation: flu-like symptoms, severe sinus pain, a skin rash, numbness or a "pins and needles" feeling in your arms or legs.

Some people using montelukast have had new or worsening mental problems. Stop taking montelukast and call your doctor right away if you have unusual changes in mood or behavior, such as:

• agitation, aggression, feeling restless or irritable;
  
• anxiety, depression, confusion, problems with memory or attention;
  
• stuttering, tremors, uncontrolled muscle movements;
  
• suicidal thoughts or actions;
  
• hallucinations, sleep problems, vivid, dreams, sleep-walking; or
  
• compulsive or repetitive behaviors.

Common side effects of montelukast may include:

• stomach pain, diarrhea;
  
• fever or other flu symptoms;
  
• ear pain or full feeling, trouble hearing;
  
• headache; or
  
• cold symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sinus pain, cough, sore throat.
  
• This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
  

How should I take montelukast?

Take montelukast exactly as prescribed by your doctor and read all medication guides or instruction sheets about montelukast.

Montelukast is not a fast-acting rescue medicine for asthma attacks. Seek medical attention if your breathing problems get worse quickly, or if you think your medications are not working.

Montelukast is usually taken once every evening, with or without food.

For exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, take a single dose at least 2 hours before exercise, and do not take another dose for at least 24 hours.

Swallow the regular tablet whole, with a glass of water.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Place the oral granules directly in your mouth and swallow, or mix them with applesauce, mashed carrots, rice, or ice cream. The granules may also be mixed with baby formula or breast milk. Do not use any other type of liquid. Use the mixture within 15 minutes. Do not save for later use.

If you also use an oral steroid medication, you should not stop using it suddenly when you start taking montelukast. Follow your doctor's instructions about tapering your dose.

Do not change your dose or stop using asthma medication without your doctor's advice.

Store montelukast at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not open a packet of montelukast oral granules until you are ready to use them.

Disclaimer: Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.