| name | Montelukast |
| Classification | Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist |
| Pharmacokinetics | Montelukast is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 3-4 hours. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP2C8 and CYP3A4). The major metabolite is pharmacologically active. The elimination half-life is approximately 5-10 hours. It is primarily excreted in the feces and to a lesser extent in the urine. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | The typical dosage for adults and adolescents (12 years and older) with asthma is 10 mg once daily in the evening. For prophylaxis of exercise-induced bronchospasm, the recommended dosage is 5-10 mg once daily, given 2 hours before exercise. | | specific dosage | Consult a physician or pharmacist for tailored dosage recommendations. Dosing in children may vary. | | weight specific consideration | While weight is not a primary factor in dosage adjustments for montelukast, it's important to note that the recommended dose for individuals in the 25-70kg weight range is generally the same. |
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| indications | Montelukast is primarily used for the prophylaxis and treatment of asthma, including exercise-induced bronchospasm. It is also indicated for the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria and for the prevention of the acute bronchospasm after exposure to allergens (in asthma patients). |
| safety in pregnancy | Limited data on the use of montelukast during pregnancy is available. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Consult a physician. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Montelukast is present in human milk, although limited data are available. The drug is considered to be likely safe during breastfeeding. The decision to use the medication should be made in consultation with the breastfeeding mother and her physician. |
| side effects | | 1 | Headache | | 2 | Fatigue | | 3 | Nasopharyngitis | | 4 | Diarrhea | | 5 | Nausea | | 6 | abdominal pain | | 7 | Elevated liver enzymes (rare) | | 8 | Skin rash |
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| alternatives | | 1 | Zafirlukast | | 2 | Zileuton | | 3 | Omalizumab (consider this as an alternative approach under physician supervision for severe cases) |
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| contraindications | Known hypersensitivity to montelukast or any of its components. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. |
| interactions | Limited significant drug interactions with montelukast have been reported. However, interactions with other medications are possible. Consult with a physician or pharmacist if you are taking other medications. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Caution is advised in patients with liver disease or impaired liver function. | | 2 | Monitor for any significant changes in liver function, especially during long-term use. | | 3 | Monitor for any allergic reactions. Discontinue the drug if an allergic reaction occurs. | | 4 | Do not abruptly stop taking montelukast if you have asthma or other conditions requiring continued use; gradually taper off the dosage under the supervision of your physician. | | 5 | Patients with a history of severe psychiatric issues should use montelukast with extreme care |
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| additional informations | Montelukast is generally considered to be well-tolerated and a safe drug for the management of asthma. Regular monitoring of liver function and other pertinent parameters is recommended when used long term. |
| patient specific considerations | As a 25-year-old male weighing 70kg, your dosage would likely align with the standard adult dose of montelukast. However, this should be discussed and prescribed by your healthcare provider. |
