If you’ve ever suffered from asthma or allergies, then you must have heard of a drug called Montelukast. Usually prescribed by physicians to manage breathing problems and allergic diseases, the pill is nowadays consumed very frequently by people of all ages. But when to use it? How to use it? And what are the Montelukast uses? We will look at these answers in a simple and direct manner, particularly from the point of view provided by Ayurvedic experts on Ask Ayurveda.
What Is Montelukast and Why Is It Used?
Montelukast belongs to a class of medications called leukotriene receptor antagonists. That is a long name, but that is essentially what it means—when your body gets an allergy, it sends out some chemicals called leukotrienes. These make your airways swell up, it makes it harder to breathe, and produce such symptoms as sneezing, wheezing, and congestion.
Montelukast keeps these leukotrienes from working, preventing swelling in the airways and making breathing easier. It is particularly beneficial in the following:
- Bronchial asthma (to avoid difficulty breathing)
- Allergic rhinitis (year-round or seasonal allergy)
- Exercise-induced asthma
It may sometimes also be used to alleviate symptoms of chronic hives or skin allergies.
When and How Should You Take Montelukast?
As per physicians at Ask Ayurveda, Montelukast is administered once a day, preferably at night. Why at night? Because most asthma and allergy patients start developing their condition in the night or morning. It allows your body time to metabolize the drug and provide maximum protection during this time.
For asthma, it’s not a reliever. That is, it’s not immediate like an inhaler. Montelukast builds up gradually and over time, so you need to keep taking it even if you are well. Doses cannot be missed as it will lower its effect.
It may be taken with or without food but make sure you follow your doctor’s advice for maximum benefit. The dose and dosage form (tablet or chewable) in children will be modified according to age and status.
Key Points to Remember Before Taking It
Montelukast is safe, but it is not without side effects. Some individuals may develop:
Headache
- Stomach discomfort
- Drowsiness
- Mood change (less frequently)
That’s why you should take it under medical supervision, particularly if you have mental health conditions in your history or are pregnant or lactating.
If you are already on an Ayurvedic regimen, inform your practitioner before taking Montelukast. Ayurveda doesn’t disapprove of allopathic medicines—but coordination between the two systems keeps your body in order.
Ayurvedic Tips Except Montelukast
Whereas Montelukast manages symptoms, Ayurveda addresses underlying reasons—imbalanced doshas, disturbed digestion, or weak immunity. In addition to Montelukast, Ayurvedic therapies such as steam inhalation with tulsi or eucalyptus, nasya with medicated oils, and immunity-promoting herbs such as Haridra (turmeric) or Sitopaladi churna may perhaps benefit long-term lung health. Do not combine herbs and tablets without professional guidance, however. Always seek the guidance of a professional Ayurvedic physician for a personalized regime.
Montelukast is a great drug for asthma and allergy control, particularly when it is taken on a regular basis. It is not rapid in action but has a strong preventive action if it is consumed in a proper manner. You can visit websites such as Ask Ayurveda to know more about the benefits and other such details about the montelukast tablet.
