Montelukast

"Montelukast is a vital preventative medication typically prescribed for the long-term management of asthma and the relief of seasonal allergies such as hay fever. It works by blocking leukotrienes, which are chemicals the body releases that cause the airways to swell and tighten, making it a key therapy for patients who require additional control alongside their standard inhalers." – Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)

You can purchase Montelukast through Mail My Meds by completing a convenient online consultation which is reviewed by a registered prescriber to ensure the treatment is suitable for your clinical needs. Once your consultation is approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) and sent via discreet home delivery. This process allows you to manage your respiratory health safely and privately without needing to visit a GP surgery in person for every repeat request.

The price of Montelukast varies depending on whether you are fulfilling a private prescription through our online clinic or a standard NHS prescription. For private orders, our pricing includes the cost of the clinical review and the medication itself. If you have an NHS prescription, the standard prescription charge will apply unless you are eligible for an exemption.

We offer several reliable delivery methods to ensure your treatment reaches you quickly and securely across the UK. You can choose from standard or expedited shipping options at the checkout stage. All packages are unbranded to maintain your privacy throughout the delivery process.

Montelukast is a non-steroidal preventative medication used to manage chronic asthma and prevent breathing difficulties during exercise. While many patients use inhalers, this oral treatment offers an alternative or additional way to control symptoms by targeting the inflammatory response in the lungs and nasal passages. It is also frequently used to treat allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, when other treatments have not been fully effective.

The active ingredient in this medication is montelukast sodium, a potent leukotriene receptor antagonist. This substance specifically targets the cysteinyl leukotriene receptors in the airways. By binding to these receptors, the medication prevents inflammatory chemicals from causing the constriction and mucus production associated with asthma attacks and allergic reactions.

Many patients report that adding this treatment to their daily routine provides a significant improvement in their ability to breathe during physical activity and reduces their reliance on rescue inhalers. In the UK, it is highly regarded for its dual action in managing both chest tightness and nasal allergy symptoms. As with any preventative medicine, users often note that consistency is key to experiencing the full therapeutic benefits over several weeks.

A physical copy of the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is included in every box of medication dispensed by our pharmacy. It is essential to read this document before starting your treatment, as it contains comprehensive data regarding the specific brand you have received. You can also access digital versions of the leaflet on the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) website.

Montelukast works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are chemicals your body produces when you breathe in an allergen or during an asthma trigger. These chemicals cause the muscles around your airways to tighten and cause the lining of the lungs to swell. By inhibiting these receptors, the medicine helps keep the airways open, making it easier to breathe and preventing the onset of symptoms.

You should take the tablet once a day in the evening, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare professional. For the medication to be effective as a preventative, it must be taken every day, even when you feel well and have no asthma symptoms. If you are using it specifically for exercise-induced symptoms, ensure you follow the timing instructions provided during your consultation.

The dose of Montelukast is determined by the age of the patient and the specific condition being treated. While our prescribers will provide a tailored plan, the general guidelines for adults are as follows:

Common side effects of Montelukast can include headaches, abdominal pain, or a sore throat, though these are typically mild and often resolve as your body adjusts. However, you should be aware of more serious but less common effects:

• Upper respiratory infections: Such as the common cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Digestive issues: Including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
• Mood changes: In rare cases, some individuals may experience sleep disturbances, anxiety, or irritability.
• Skin reactions: A mild rash or itching.

This medication is a preventative treatment and must not be used to treat a sudden, acute asthma attack; you must always have your fast-acting reliever inhaler available for emergencies. Before starting, inform your prescriber if you have a history of liver problems or if you have ever experienced mental health issues, as this treatment has been linked to neuropsychiatric events in some patients. Always consult your doctor if you notice any significant changes in mood or behaviour.

Montelukast differs from traditional steroid inhalers because it is a tablet that targets a specific inflammatory pathway rather than providing a broad anti-inflammatory effect in the lungs. While inhaled corticosteroids remain the "gold standard" for asthma, this treatment is often used as an "add-on" therapy for those whose symptoms are not fully controlled by an inhaler alone. Unlike antihistamines, it is effective for both lung and nasal symptoms, making it a versatile choice for patients with "allergic asthma."

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

There are no known direct interactions between alcohol and this medication, so moderate consumption is generally considered safe. However, it is always best to monitor how you feel, as alcohol can sometimes worsen underlying sleep issues or headaches.

How long does it take to start working?

While some people may notice an improvement within the first 24 hours, it typically takes a few weeks of consistent daily use to reach its full effect in preventing asthma symptoms. Do not stop taking the medication if you do not feel an immediate change.

Is Montelukast a steroid?

No, it is not a steroid. It belongs to a class of drugs called leukotriene receptor antagonists, which work differently from the corticosteroids found in many asthma inhalers.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional for personalised care. Always consult with your GP or a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health profile.

Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts to ensure it remains up to date, accurate, and aligned with the latest clinical guidelines in the UK. We prioritise providing reliable information to help you make informed decisions about your health.