Montelukast 5 mg Tablet

Generic Name:

• Montelukast Sodium

Brand Names:

• Singulair, Montiget, Monkast, Airlukast, Leukast, etc.

Prescription Status:

• Prescription Only (Rx)

What It Is

Montelukast 5 mg is a chewable or dispersible tablet primarily used to:

• Prevent asthma symptoms in children aged 6 to 14 years

• Treat seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis

• Prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction

How It Works

It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) that blocks the action of leukotrienes—substances in the body that cause inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus production. By doing so, it helps open airways and reduce allergy symptoms.

Dosage & Administration

• Children 6–14 years: 5 mg once daily in the evening

• Can be taken with or without food

• Not to be used during acute asthma attacks

• Must be chewed or dissolved in the mouth (do not swallow whole)

Common Side Effects

• Headache

• Stomach pain

• Diarrhea

• Sore throat

• Fever

• Rash

Rare but Serious Side Effects

• Mood and behavior changes: anxiety, depression, aggression, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts

• Allergic reactions: swelling, rash, breathing difficulty

• Rare inflammatory condition: Churg-Strauss syndrome

Precautions

• Monitor for any behavioral or mood changes

• Avoid abrupt discontinuation of other asthma medications unless advised

• Inform the doctor if taking enzyme-inducing drugs (e.g., phenytoin, rifampin)

Use in Children

• Approved for use in children 6 to 14 years

• For children 2–5 years, a 4 mg dose is typically used

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category B)

• Use with caution during breastfeeding

Form

• 5 mg chewable tablets, often flavored (e.g., cherry), to make them palatable for children