Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Montelukast requires a valid prescription.
Montelukast
Generic Name: MONTELUKAST SODIUM
Montelukast sodium, USP the active ingredient in montelukast sodium chewable tablets, is a selective and orally active leukotriene receptor antagonist that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT 1 receptor.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Montelukast Used For?
- Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in patients 6 years of age and older
How Does It Work?
These eicosanoids bind to cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT) receptors.
Dosage & Administration
- Dosage (by age) ( 2 ): 15 years and older: one 10-mg tablet. 6 to 14 years: one 5-mg chewable tablet. 2 to 5 years: one 4-mg chewable tablet.
- Patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis should take only one dose daily in the evening . 2.1 Asthma Montelukast sodium should be taken once daily in the evening.
- For pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age: one 5-mg chewable tablet.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Do not prescribe montelukast sodium to treat an acute asthma attack . Advise patients to have appropriate rescue medication available . Inhaled corticosteroid may be reduced gradually.
- Do not abruptly substitute montelukast sodium for inhaled or oral corticosteroids . Patients with known aspirin sensitivity should continue to avoid aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking montelukast sodium . Systemic eosinophilia, sometimes presenting with clinical features of vasculitis consistent with Churg-Strauss syndrome, has been reported.
- Based upon the available data, it is difficult to identify risk for or quantify the risk of NP events with montelukast sodium use.
- Because of the risk NP events, the benefits of montelukast sodium may not outweigh the risks in some patients, particularly when the symptoms of disease may be mild and adequately with alternative therapies.
- In patients with asthma or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, consider the benefits and risks before prescribing montelukast sodium.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Hypersensitivity to any component of this product. Hypersensitivity to any component of this product ( 4 ).
Drug Interactions
Montelukast may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a pulmonologist on Zospital
Consult a pulmonologist on Zospital before starting Montelukast. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Respiratory & Asthma Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Montelukast – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Montelukast, its uses, dosage and safety.
Montelukast is commonly prescribed in India for: Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in patients 6 years of age and older. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Montelukast is sold in India under brand names such as Montair, Singulair, Montek, Romilast, montelukast sodium. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Montelukast is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Montelukast can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Fatigue, Insomnia. Less common but serious side effects can include: Anaphylaxis, Suicidal, Seizure, Stevens-johnson, Pancreatitis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
These eicosanoids bind to cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT) receptors.
Montelukast can interact with: Clinical. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Montelukast.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Montelukast for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Montelukast depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Montelukast during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Montelukast's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.