Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg Chewable Tablet 100's

Product Description:

Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg chewable tablets are a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe. It is typically used to manage conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. Montelukast works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are substances in the body that contribute to inflammation in the airways and allergic responses.

Each chewable tablet of Monte H4 contains 4mg of Montelukast Sodium and is typically recommended for children aged 2 to 5 years, although adults may also use the standard 10mg tablets. It is commonly used as part of a broader asthma treatment regimen or for managing symptoms of seasonal allergies.

Indications:

Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg chewable tablets are indicated for the following conditions:

1. Asthma:

   • Monte H4 is used as a prophylactic treatment for asthma in children and adults. It helps to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and improves overall lung function. It is especially beneficial for patients who experience asthma triggered by allergens or physical activity.

2. Allergic Rhinitis:

   • Used to treat seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Monte H4 can help reduce the symptoms associated with hay fever or allergic rhinitis.

3. Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction:

   • It helps prevent narrowing of the airways during or after exercise, which is often experienced by asthma sufferers or those with exercise-induced asthma.

Dosage:

The typical dosage for Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg chewable tablets is:

For Children (2 to 5 years old):

• Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis:

  • The usual dose is 4mg once daily, taken in the evening.

For Children (6 to 14 years old):

• Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis:

  • The usual dose is 5mg once daily, taken in the evening.

For Adults and Children (15 years and older):

• Adults and older children typically use 10mg tablets. The recommended dose is 10mg once daily, taken in the evening.

Note: For patients with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, Montelukast should be taken at least 2 hours before exercise, and the usual dose is 10mg once daily.

Instructions:

• Monte H4 tablets should be chewed completely before swallowing. It can be taken with or without food, depending on the patient's preference.

Side Effects:

Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg chewable tablets are generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, they can cause some side effects. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache.

• Abdominal pain or discomfort.

• Cough.

• Diarrhea.

• Sore throat.

• Fever.

Serious Side Effects:

• Behavioral changes: Some patients may experience mood changes, such as agitation, anxiety, or irritability. In rare cases, more severe effects like aggression, depression, or thoughts of suicide have been reported.

• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, nightmares, and other sleep disturbances.

• Allergic reactions: Severe reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a rash could indicate a serious allergic reaction to Montelukast. Immediate medical attention should be sought if these symptoms occur.

• Liver problems: Very rarely, liver dysfunction can occur, leading to symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

Contraindications:

Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg chewable tablets should be avoided or used with caution in the following situations:

1. Hypersensitivity:

   • Contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity (allergic reaction) to Montelukast or any of the components of the product. Signs of hypersensitivity may include rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

2. Severe Liver Disease:

   • Monte H4 should be used with caution in patients with severe liver disease. Liver function should be monitored regularly if Montelukast is used in such patients.

3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

   • While Montelukast is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it should only be used when necessary and after assessing the potential benefits versus risks. Montelukast passes into breast milk, so it should be used with caution during breastfeeding, particularly if the baby is very young or premature.

4. Acute Asthma Attacks:

   • Monte H4 should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks or in place of short-acting bronchodilators (e.g., salbutamol) for acute symptoms. It is meant for long-term control and prevention, not for immediate relief.

5. Churg-Strauss Syndrome:

   • Montelukast should be used cautiously in patients with a history of Churg-Strauss Syndrome (a rare type of vasculitis), as there have been reports of this syndrome occurring in association with leukotriene receptor antagonists.

Precautions:

• Monitor Mood and Behavior: Given the risk of behavioral and mood changes, healthcare providers should monitor patients, especially children and adolescents, for any signs of mood disorders or suicidal thoughts.

• Asthma Patients: If a patient experiences increased asthma symptoms or any worsening of their asthma condition, they should seek immediate medical attention. Montelukast is not intended for acute attacks.

• Drug Interactions:

  • There are no significant drug interactions reported with Montelukast, but patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking, especially other medications used for asthma or allergies.

Conclusion:

Montelukast Sodium (Monte H4) 4mg chewable tablets are an effective treatment for controlling asthma, allergic rhinitis, and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in children. While the medication is generally safe and well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, especially concerning mood and behavior changes. As always, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage, monitor for any adverse effects, and consult with a healthcare provider if any concerns arise.