Montelukast Torrent Pharma (Uk) (Montelukast)

Montelukast acts on the leukotriene pathway to control inflammatory airway conditions.

• Asthma: improves control of chronic asthma and reduces frequency of exacerbations.
• Exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction: prevents narrowing of airways triggered by physical activity.
• Allergic rhinitis: alleviates nasal congestion, sneezing and itching caused by seasonal allergens.

• Montelukast selectively blocks the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT1, preventing leukotrienes D4, E4 and related mediators from binding. This inhibition reduces leukotriene‑mediated bronchoconstriction, vascular permeability and inflammatory cell recruitment, thereby decreasing airway narrowing and inflammation.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Upper respiratory tract infection: transient symptoms.
• Abdominal pain: occasional discomfort.
• Cough: non‑productive.
• Diarrhoea: self‑limiting.
• Rash: mild skin irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Mood changes: including depression or suicidal thoughts.
• Angio‑edema: swelling of lips, tongue or face.
• Hepatic enzyme elevation: abnormal liver function tests.
• Anaphylaxis: rare severe allergic reaction.

Montelukast should be used with awareness of specific safety considerations.

• Pregnancy: safety data are limited; discuss risks with a healthcare professional.
• Breastfeeding: excreted in milk; evaluate benefit‑risk ratio.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution in patients with liver disease.
• Psychiatric disorders: monitor for mood changes or suicidal ideation.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Montelukast may interact with other medicines, requiring attention to the interaction strength.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Phenobarbital: may reduce montelukast plasma concentrations.
• Rifampin: can lower drug exposure, compromising efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine): potential for additive neuropsychiatric effects.
• Antihistamines: may increase risk of drowsiness.
• CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole): could raise montelukast levels.
• Herbal supplements containing St. John’s wort: may decrease effectiveness.