Alukast 10mg

Description

Alukast 10mg Tablet contains montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) that blocks leukotrienes, chemicals responsible for airway narrowing and inflammation. By preventing these effects, it helps manage asthma and allergy symptoms without acting as a bronchodilator or rescue medication.

Ingredients

• Montelukast 10 mg (per tablet).

Dosage Form

• Tablet

Uses

Alukast 10mg Tablet is indicated for:

• Controlling and preventing asthma symptoms.
• Preventing exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
• Relieving symptoms of hay fever and allergic rhinitis (e.g., sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy/runny nose).

Dosage

Dosage should always be determined by a doctor’s advice; the following information is provided as supportive reference for informational purposes only. Typically, adults and adolescents: 10 mg once daily in the evening. For exercise-induced asthma, take 2 hours before exercise, not exceeding one dose per day.

In Case of Overdose

Overdose may cause restlessness, sleepiness, stomach pain, thirst, or vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one and do not double the dose.

How to Use

Administer orally, with or without meals. For granules (if applicable), take directly or mix with applesauce, carrot sauce, or ice cream (not liquids) within 15 minutes of opening. Follow prescribed timing, typically evening, for optimal effect.

When Not to Use

Avoid in:

• Hypersensitivity to montelukast or any components.
• Patients with increased eosinophils, suicidal thoughts, depression, vasculitis, or anxiety disorders.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Abdominal pain.
• Headache.
• Thirst.
• Gastrointestinal upset.
• Hyperkinesia (muscle spasms).

Rare side effects:

• Anaphylaxis.
• Angioedema.
• Seizures.
• Elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST).
• Cholestatic hepatitis.

Discontinue if signs of Churg-Strauss Syndrome (vasculitis) appear.

Precautions & Warnings

• Not for acute asthma attacks; use rescue inhalers for sudden symptoms.
• Do not abruptly replace inhaled/oral corticosteroids.
• Avoid aspirin/NSAIDs in aspirin-sensitive asthma patients.
• Monitor for neuropsychiatric events (e.g., mood changes); notify healthcare provider.
• Chewable tablets may contain aspartame; caution in phenylketonuria.
• Pregnancy/Lactation: Effects unclear; consult a doctor.
• Driving: Avoid if drowsiness occurs.
• Alcohol: Avoid to prevent enhanced side effects.
• May increase risk of upper respiratory infections.

Drug Interactions

No major interactions commonly reported; inform healthcare provider of all medications, especially enzyme inducers or other asthma/allergy treatments.

Food Interactions

• Can be taken with or without food.
• Avoid mixing granules with liquids; use soft foods if needed.

Storage/Disposal

Store at room temperature (18-25°C), away from light, moisture, and children. Dispose of unused or expired medication per local guidelines; do not flush.

FAQs

How does it work? Blocks leukotrienes to prevent airway narrowing.

How to store? At 18-25°C, away from light, moisture, and children.

Why taken at night? Montelukast has increased efficacy at night.

How long should it be taken? Once daily in the evening for asthma/allergy; 2 hours before exercise if needed. Max one dose daily.

Is it an immunosuppressant? Yes, it has immunosuppressive properties.

Can it treat asthma attacks? No, not for acute attacks; use rescue medication.

Does it affect fertility? May impact female fertility; consult a doctor if planning pregnancy.

What are overdose symptoms? Restlessness, sleepiness, stomach pain, thirst, vomiting.

Does it cause lung infections? May increase risk of upper respiratory infections.

Is it good for nasal congestion? Yes, it helps relieve nasal congestion from allergies.

Is it a bronchodilator? Yes, it has bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects.

Doctor’s Review

Dr. Hassan Mehmood (Pulmonologist, Karachi): “Alukast 10mg Tablet functions as a leukotriene antagonist, preventing airway constriction and inflammation, effectively managing asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms with evening dosing.”

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or altering any medication.