Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators produced by the body that contribute to asthma symptoms such as airway constriction, mucus production and inflammation, and montelukast works on leukotrienes. This response to allergens or irritants is explained by an interaction between mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, substances produced when blood cells that are in the airways produce more chemicals (cytokines) which release white tears over muscle tissue resulting on bronchoconstriction with a final result causing asthma attacks. Montelukast (Singulair) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist which inhibits the action of inflammatory chemicals in lungs, and relaxes airway muscles thereby it helps to improve overall lung function ensuring control on asthmatic symptoms.
Montelukast has been found to reduce the number of asthma attacks by 35% in a metanalysis (a statistical review) compared with other medicines and placebo, especially sufferers of exercise- or allergy-induced symptoms. This medication needs to be taken only once a day, which makes it well suited for chronic treatment. Chewable tablets and granules are available for children, to make this medication easier but still just as effective.
The bronchodilating effects of montelukast, along with better lung function, also reduce the use of rescue inhalers. A 2021 study showed that use of montelukast added to the usual compliance inhalers led to a 30% reduction, but note that an additional NSW Health Medicines Reconciliation Clinical Call recording is available in relation with this topic. The combination approach allows for better control of asthma symptoms, consequently producing fewer nighttime awakenings and improving quality of life.
Although montelukast has been found to have an effect, it is not without its side effects. The FDA flagged neuropsychiatric events including mood changes, anxiety and in rare cases suicidal ideation. Although less than 1% of users experience these side effects, it does highlight that your mental health should be monitored while you are being treated. Talking to a health care provider about any concerns helps you use the product safely and effectively.
Montelukast works well especially for those people in whom asthma is not fully controlled by the inhaled corticosteroids. It provides an alternative for patients who either have side effects with higher-dose corticosteroids or prefer the option of taking a pill rather than receiving injections. Since airway inflammation is one of the driving factors for asthma, it works great as part of an overall treatment plan for people with allergic triggers.
Knowing what is montelukast used for and how it works makes the patient an active participant in his asthma treatment – a key situation that will result better on symptom control, prevent complications or events closely related to progression of asthma.