Montelukast

Summary

Montelukast is a medication used to treat asthma. It is a long-acting drug used as maintenance therapy to prevent asthma attacks from occurring. Due to this long and slow course of action, it is not a rescue medication and should not be taken during an acute asthma attack. Montelukast comes in a tablet form that is either chewed or swallowed - unlike most other asthma medications, it is not inhaled.

Key Points

• Montelukast (Singulair)
  • Mechanism
    • Leukotriene receptor blocker
      • Binds with leukotriene receptors to promote bronchodilation, reduce inflammation, and suppress mucus production
  • Clinical Use
    • Asthma
      • For prophylactic and maintenance use
      • Should not be used during an acute attack; not a rescue medication
      • For maintenance, take once daily at bedtime
      • Administered as an oral tablet, it is not inhaled
    • Allergic rhinitis
  • Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
    • Depression, suicidal ideation