Amikast
Generic Name
Montelukast 5 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| amikast 5 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Amikast 5 mg Tablet contains Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It is used for the prevention and long-term treatment of asthma, and for the relief of symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For adults and adolescents 15 years and older: one 10 mg tablet daily, taken in the evening. For children aged 6 to 14 years: one 5 mg chewable tablet daily, taken in the evening (This 5 mg tablet is typically for this age group).
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally once daily in the evening, with or without food. For asthma, take in the evening. For allergic rhinitis, timing may be individualized. Continue taking it regularly even if you feel well.
Mechanism of Action
Montelukast selectively antagonizes the cysteinyl leukotriene 1 (CysLT1) receptor. Cysteinyl leukotrienes are potent inflammatory eicosanoids released from various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils, and cause bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, vascular permeability, and eosinophil recruitment, all of which contribute to asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms. By blocking these receptors, Montelukast reduces these inflammatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Symptomatic improvement may be noticed within 1 day of starting treatment.
Excretion
Primarily via bile in feces (>86%), with minimal urinary excretion (<0.2%).
Half life
2.7 to 5.5 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentration (Tmax) is typically 2-4 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP3A4, 2C8, and 2C9).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to montelukast or any excipients of the product
- Not indicated for the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks
Drug Interactions
Rifampin
May decrease the plasma concentrations of montelukast, potentially reducing its efficacy.
Gemfibrozil
May increase plasma concentrations of montelukast, monitoring for adverse effects might be considered.
Phenobarbital
Co-administration with phenobarbital may decrease the area under the curve (AUC) of montelukast by approximately 40%, requiring clinical monitoring.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, the most frequently reported adverse experiences were thirst, somnolence, mydriasis, hyperkinesia, and abdominal pain. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote is known.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is unknown if montelukast is excreted in human milk; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to montelukast or any excipients of the product
- Not indicated for the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks
Drug Interactions
Rifampin
May decrease the plasma concentrations of montelukast, potentially reducing its efficacy.
Gemfibrozil
May increase plasma concentrations of montelukast, monitoring for adverse effects might be considered.
Phenobarbital
Co-administration with phenobarbital may decrease the area under the curve (AUC) of montelukast by approximately 40%, requiring clinical monitoring.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, the most frequently reported adverse experiences were thirst, somnolence, mydriasis, hyperkinesia, and abdominal pain. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote is known.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is unknown if montelukast is excreted in human milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on storage conditions.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA, DGDA
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Montelukast has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials, demonstrating its efficacy and safety in patients with asthma and allergic rhinitis across various age groups, including pediatric and adult populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (if hepatic symptoms develop)
- Monitor for neuropsychiatric symptoms and behavioral changes.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient adherence to daily dosing in the evening, even when asymptomatic, to achieve optimal asthma and allergy control.
- Clarify that montelukast is a prophylactic treatment and not indicated for the immediate relief of acute bronchospasm; patients should have appropriate rescue medication available.
- Advise patients and caregivers to monitor for and promptly report any behavioral or mood changes, including agitation, aggression, depression, or suicidal ideation.
- Patients should be instructed not to suddenly discontinue inhaled corticosteroids or other asthma treatments when initiating montelukast, unless specifically advised by a physician.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine daily in the evening, as prescribed, even if you have no symptoms.
- Do not use this medicine for acute asthma attacks; use a fast-acting bronchodilator for emergencies.
- Report any new or worsening neuropsychiatric symptoms (e.g., mood changes, aggression, suicidal thoughts) to your doctor immediately.
- Do not stop taking other asthma medications unless directed by your doctor.
- This medicine is not a substitute for inhaled corticosteroids, continue your other prescribed treatments.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness or somnolence in some individuals. Patients should be advised to determine their response to Amikast 5 mg Tablet before driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid asthma and allergy triggers such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Practice breathing exercises as advised by your healthcare provider.
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