Product Description

Indications: Montril is indicated for the prophylaxis and long-term management of asthma, prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, and relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.

Pharmacology: Montelukast is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CysLT1). Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators released from mast cells and eosinophils and play a key role in airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and edema. By inhibiting leukotriene activity, montelukast improves airway function and reduces symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Dosage & Administration: For adults and adolescents aged 15 years and above, the recommended dose is 10 mg once daily. For children aged 6–14 years, the dose is 5 mg once daily, and for children aged 2–5 years, 4 mg once daily. In children aged 6 months to 5 years, 4 mg oral granules may be given once daily, either directly or mixed with a small amount of soft food or cold water. No dose adjustment is required in elderly patients or those with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment.

Interaction: Montril can be safely used with most standard asthma therapies without significant interactions. It does not significantly affect drugs such as theophylline, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, digoxin, or warfarin. However, enzyme inducers like phenobarbital or rifampicin may reduce its effectiveness, so monitoring is recommended.

Contraindications: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to montelukast or any of its components.

Side Effects: Common side effects include diarrhea, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal discomfort, skin reactions, and upper respiratory infections. Less common effects include anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, sleep disturbances, irritability, and muscle pain. Rare but serious effects include angioedema, hepatic disorders, hallucinations, memory impairment, and suicidal tendencies.

Pregnancy & Lactation: There are no adequate controlled studies in pregnant women; therefore, it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary. Montelukast may be excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised during breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings: Montril is not suitable for the treatment of acute asthma attacks and should not replace rescue medication. Patients should continue their prescribed asthma therapy and not abruptly discontinue corticosteroids. It should not be used as sole therapy for exercise-induced bronchospasm. Patients sensitive to aspirin should continue avoiding NSAIDs. Monitor for neuropsychiatric symptoms and advise patients accordingly.

Overdose Effects: Most overdose cases are mild and include symptoms such as abdominal pain, drowsiness, headache, thirst, vomiting, and hyperactivity. Management is supportive and symptomatic.

Therapeutic Class: Leukotriene receptor antagonist

Storage Conditions: Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.