Montelukast Teva (Montelukast)

Montelukast acts on the leukotriene pathway to manage chronic respiratory and allergic conditions.

• Asthma: reduces bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation, improving breathing control.
• Allergic rhinitis: eases nasal congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes caused by allergens.
• Exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction: helps prevent airway narrowing during physical activity.

• Montelukast selectively blocks the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT1, preventing leukotrienes D4, E4 and F4 from binding. This inhibition reduces bronchial smooth‑muscle contraction, vascular permeability, and mucus secretion, thereby mitigating airway inflammation and allergic responses.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate pain in the head.
• Abdominal pain: discomfort or cramps in the stomach area.
• Cough: occasional irritation of the throat.
• Nausea: feeling of sickness or urge to vomit.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Fatigue: unusual tiredness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin reaction with blistering.
• Angioedema: rapid swelling of face, lips or throat.
• Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Neuropsychiatric events: depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
• Anaphylaxis: life‑threatening allergic reaction.
• Severe rash: widespread skin eruptions.

Before using Montelukast, consider the following safety measures.

• Neuropsychiatric monitoring: watch for mood changes, depression or suicidal ideation.
• Liver function: use cautiously in patients with hepatic impairment.
• Hypersensitivity: avoid if known allergy to montelukast or any excipients.
• Asthma control assessment: ensure baseline control before initiation.
• Drug interaction review: evaluate concomitant medicines for potential interactions.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Montelukast may interact with other medicines; some require avoidance while others need monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampin: strong CYP3A4 inducer that can lower montelukast levels.
• Phenobarbital: enzyme inducer reducing therapeutic effect.
• Ketoconazole: potent CYP3A4 inhibitor that may increase montelukast exposure.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: may increase risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
• Warfarin: potential alteration of anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
• Oral contraceptives: possible change in hormone levels; observe for efficacy.