Medicine Information

Gifon

Name: Gifon
Brand: Gifon
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet1 mgLeukotriene receptor antagonistATC: R03DC03

Generic Name

Montelukast Sodium

Manufacturer

Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
gifon 1 mg tablet	৳ 3.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Gifon 1 mg tablet contains Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist primarily used for the management of asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Uses & Indications

Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in patients 6 months of age and older.

Relief of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients 2 years of age and older.

Relief of symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis in patients 6 months of age and older.

Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in patients 6 years of age and older.

Dosage

Adults

Not recommended for adults; higher strengths (10 mg) are typically used for adults and adolescents 15 years and older.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients. Follow adult dosage recommendations for higher strengths if applicable.

Pediatric

For children 6 to 23 months (for asthma): 1 mg once daily in the evening. For children 2 to 5 years (for allergic rhinitis): Consult doctor for appropriate strength (typically 4 mg chewable tablet or granules).

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment.

How to Take

Take orally once daily in the evening, with or without food. For very young children, the tablet may be crushed and mixed with a spoonful of soft food (e.g., applesauce, yogurt) or administered directly, ensuring the full dose is consumed immediately.

Mechanism of Action

Montelukast selectively antagonizes the CysLT1 receptor, thereby blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are potent inflammatory mediators involved in the pathogenesis of asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Clinical effects are generally observed within one day of administration.

Excretion

Primarily excreted in feces via bile (approximately 86%), with less than 0.2% excreted renally.

Half life

The elimination half-life ranges from 2.7 to 5.5 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Bioavailability is approximately 64%. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved in about 2-4 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C8, CYP3A4, and CYP2C9.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to montelukast or any component of the tablet.

Drug Interactions

Rifampin

May decrease montelukast plasma concentrations by inducing hepatic metabolism. Clinical monitoring is recommended.

Phenobarbital

May decrease montelukast plasma concentrations by inducing hepatic metabolism. Patients should be monitored for clinical response.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include abdominal pain, somnolence, thirst, headache, vomiting, and psychomotor hyperactivity. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; no specific antidote is available.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Montelukast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Studies in rats showed excretion of montelukast in milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

36 months from the manufacturing date

Availability

Pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA/FDA

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated Montelukast's efficacy and safety in various age groups for asthma and allergic rhinitis, including specific studies for pediatric populations.

Lab Monitoring

No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required.
Liver function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or in case of suspected liver issues.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize to parents/caregivers the importance of daily, consistent dosing.
Educate patients and parents about potential neuropsychiatric symptoms and the need for prompt reporting.
Reiterate that this medication is a controller, not a rescue medication for acute attacks.

Patient Guidelines

Take the medicine regularly as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel well.
Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor immediately about any unusual side effects, especially mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts.
This medicine is not for sudden asthma attacks; always have a rescue inhaler readily available.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

Montelukast may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. Patients should be aware of how they react to the medication before driving or operating machinery.