Modulair (Montelukast)

Montelukast acts on the leukotriene pathway to control chronic respiratory conditions.

• Asthma maintenance therapy: reduces the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms and exacerbations.
• Allergic rhinitis: alleviates nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching caused by seasonal or perennial allergens.
• Exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction: prevents airway narrowing during physical activity, improving exercise tolerance.

• Montelukast selectively blocks the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT1, preventing leukotrienes from binding and triggering bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and airway inflammation. By inhibiting this pathway, the drug reduces airway hyper‑responsiveness and inflammatory cell recruitment, contributing to improved respiratory function in asthma and allergic conditions.

Montelukast is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate pain often reported during treatment.
• Abdominal pain: discomfort or cramps in the stomach area.
• Nausea: feeling of queasiness without vomiting.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness or balance disturbance.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: including angioedema, urticaria, or anaphylaxis.
• Neuropsychiatric events: mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts.
• Hepatic enzyme elevation: abnormal liver function tests.
• Severe skin reactions: such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Liver function assessment: evaluate hepatic status, especially in patients with pre‑existing liver disease.
• Neuropsychiatric monitoring: watch for mood alterations, depression, or suicidal ideation.
• Severe asthma caution: do not substitute for rescue inhalers in acute attacks.
• Hypersensitivity check: avoid use in individuals with known allergy to montelukast or any tablet excipients.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Montelukast may interact with other medicines, requiring attention to potential changes in efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): may markedly reduce montelukast plasma levels.
• Phenobarbital: can lower drug exposure, compromising therapeutic effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline): may increase risk of neuropsychiatric side effects.
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril): combined use may raise the chance of angioedema.
• Theophylline: additive bronchodilator effect may require dose adjustment.