Pulmokast
Generic Name
Montelukast
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| pulmokast 4 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Pulmokast 4 mg Chewable Tablet contains Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It is used for the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma and for the relief of symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, particularly in pediatric patients.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Not indicated for adults in 4mg chewable tablet form. Adults typically use 10mg tablets.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required for elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment.
Children_2_5_years
One 4 mg chewable tablet once daily in the evening.
How to Take
Take one tablet orally once daily in the evening, with or without food. The tablet should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Do not swallow whole.
Mechanism of Action
Montelukast selectively blocks the cysteinyl leukotriene 1 (CysLT1) receptor, which prevents the effects of leukotrienes (LTD4, LTE4, LTC4). Leukotrienes are potent inflammatory mediators involved in asthma and allergic rhinitis, causing bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and increased vascular permeability.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects are generally observed within one day of administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted via the bile in feces (approximately 86%), with less than 0.2% excreted in urine.
Half life
Mean plasma half-life ranges from 2.7 to 5.5 hours in healthy young adults.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Mean peak plasma concentration (Tmax) is reached in approximately 2-4 hours for chewable tablets.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes (primarily CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and CYP2C9).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Montelukast or any component of the formulation.
- Not for use in the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks.
Drug Interactions
Rifampin
May decrease the plasma concentration of Montelukast. Coadministration is not recommended without clinical monitoring.
Gemfibrozil
Coadministration may increase Montelukast systemic exposure; use with caution.
Phenobarbital
May decrease the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of Montelukast by approximately 40%.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, the most frequently reported adverse events are abdominal pain, somnolence, thirst, headache, vomiting, and psychomotor hyperactivity. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. It is not known whether Montelukast is dialyzable.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. In human studies, Montelukast has been excreted in breast milk. Use during pregnancy or lactation only if clearly needed and after consulting a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, as indicated on the packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Montelukast in children with asthma and allergic rhinitis across various age groups. Studies confirm its role in reducing exacerbations and improving lung function.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is not typically required. Liver function tests may be considered if signs or symptoms of hepatic dysfunction develop.
Doctor Notes
- Educate parents/caregivers about the potential for neuropsychiatric events and advise them to seek immediate medical attention if such symptoms occur.
- Emphasize that Montelukast is for maintenance therapy, not for acute bronchospasm. Patients should have a short-acting beta-agonist for rescue.
- Ensure adherence to daily evening dosing for optimal efficacy.
- Review the patient's asthma action plan regularly.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not use this medicine for acute asthma attacks; it is for prevention and long-term control.
- Continue taking the medicine regularly, even if you feel better or have no asthma symptoms.
- Report any unusual mood or behavior changes, including agitation, aggression, depression, or suicidal thoughts, to your doctor immediately.
- Ensure proper chewing of the tablet before swallowing, especially for children.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. Patients should be advised to determine their response to Pulmokast before driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid known asthma triggers and allergens.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet (as advised by a doctor).
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