What It Is
Montelukast belongs to a class of medicines called leukotriene receptor antagonists. It is taken by mouth, usually once a day, as a tablet, chewable tablet, or granules.
What It's Used For
Montelukast is generally used to prevent asthma symptoms, prevent exercise-induced breathing difficulty, and relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal congestion. It is a preventive medicine and is not meant for sudden asthma attacks, which need a quick-relief inhaler.
How It Works
Montelukast works by blocking the receptors for leukotrienes, chemical messengers that cause airway muscles to tighten, airways to swell, and mucus to build up. By blocking their action, montelukast reduces inflammation in the airways and makes breathing easier over time.
History and Regulatory Status
Montelukast was developed in the 1990s and came into medical use in the late 1990s. It is now widely available as a generic medicine under many brand names. It is a prescription medicine, and regulators in some countries have added a warning about rare mood and behaviour changes, so people are advised to report any such changes to their doctor.